Creatives cash in as State moves to break Sh92bn cartel grip
The Kenyan government is prioritizing the creative economy as part of its economic transformation agenda, aiming to dismantle cartels and empower young talent. Veteran filmmaker John Karanja was honored at the 2026 Kalasha Film and TV Awards, highlighting the sector's growth potential.
Why it matters
This reflects a shift in national policy toward formalizing and investing in the creative arts as a pillar of economic development.
President William Ruto gets a feel of what it takes to be a master of ceremonies John Karanja never quite saw it coming, although a tiny, unfamiliar current kept rippling through his heart.
The veteran filmmaker, behind numerous popular TV productions such as Waridi and Maua , was enjoying the glitzy gala night during the 2026 Kalasha Film and TV Awards at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, where President William Ruto was the chief guest.
The 14th edition of Kalasha was the first to be attended by a Kenyan head of state.
And then the announcement hit Karanja: “The winner of the 2026 Kalasha Lifetime Achievement Award is…”
“It was a huge surprise. You never know how what you do touches people’s lives until, finally, someone somewhere recognises it without even your input, without you even knowing it’s happening,” he said.
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