By Dorothy Musyoka
The Senate of Kenya invites the public to share there views on the Creative Economy Support Bill 2024 (Senat Bills No.30 of 2024).
“The Creative Economy Support Bill,2024 is up for public participation,” stated the Senate.
“In accordance with the provisions of Article 118 of the constitution and standing order145 (5) of the Senate Standing Orders, the Standing Committee on Trade, Industrialization and Tourism now invites interested members of the public to submit any representations that they may have on the Bill by way of written memoranda,” read Senate’s notice.
The Bill which was first time read in the Senate on Tuesday, 6th August,2024 seeks to establish a legal framework for the support of persons in the creative industry.Further the Bill seeks to establish a Creative Fund to finance the creative initiatives.
“The principal object of the Creative Economy Support Bill, 2024 is to establish a legal framework for the support of persons in the creative industry and further enhance entry and contribution to the industry.The Bill further seeks to establish a Creatives Fund for purposes of financing creative initiatives by various creatives in the industry and for supporting the implementation and execution of creative projects,” reads the Bill.
According to the Bill the government is tasked to create an enabling environment through direct and indirect support for creative artists and organisations, formulation of policies for industry development, promotion of entrepreneurial skills,investment in infrastructure, review of trade policies, facilitation of access to funds, establishment of dialogue forums,implementation of growth strategies and facilitation of market access.
The Bill seeks to establish the Creatives Fund, intended to provide grants to individuals in the creative industry according to criteria set by the Cabinet Secretary through regulations.
The Committee is required to submit its report to the Senate within thirty (30) calendar days of the committal of the Bill to the Committee.