Deputy President William Ruto met with Kenyan rapper Khaligraph Jones and other artists to discuss the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the entertainment and creative industry.
At the meeting, held at the DP's residence, the artists raised issues affecting them and offered to participate in flattening the curve.
Among the requests made was the creation of a special government fund to support the artists during this downtime where the government, and persons of goodwill would support to reengineer the industry in digital space to facilitate online music concerts and to assist the industry to adapt to the new normal.
"In our meeting, we also discussed the possibility of coming up with a policy that will help weed out bureaucracy, brokers, and impediments that slow the growth of the industry.
"We acknowledge that artists have worked hand in hand with the government and appreciate their proposal to assist in confronting the pandemic. We welcome their offer to reinforce the campaign on the observance of Covid-19 protocols and vaccination drive once it is rolled out fully," Ruto noted.
The artists offered to spearhead an intense campaign to promote the Ministry of Health’s protocols and vaccination drive as their contribution in the battle against Covid-19.
Further, they asked the Government to provide a clear roadmap, timelines, and measurable milestones whose attainment will lead to the re-opening of the country. This, they noted, will help them plan the resumption of their activities.
Ruto offered to forward their recommendations and proposals to the National Emergency Response Committee on Coronavirus.
The musicians had earlier, tried to reach out to both ODM leader Raila Odinga and DP Ruto over the dire situation brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.
"If you help us in this situation, I will campaign for you for free in the upcoming election," Khaligraph told Ruto.
In response, the DP indicated that he knew and understood the pain of sleeping on an empty stomach, adding that he was committed to assisting the vulnerable.
"As a personal initiative, I am ready to help as we complement government programmes on the same. I will also mobilize my friends to get some more help," Ruto replied.
