President William Ruto has revealed that Kenya has officially launched bid to host the Grammy Awards, having allocated about Ksh500 million for this purpose.

Speaking during a town hall event on Monday December 9, 2024 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), President Ruto emphasized his government’s dedication to enhancing Kenya’s creative sector and transforming the nation into a global entertainment hub.

He previously announced in April 2024 that Kenya was selected as one of four countries to partner with Grammy Global Ventures for the Grammy Awards.

This collaboration aims to elevate Kenya’s status in the global creative industry.

During the announcement, President Ruto highlighted the importance of incorporating performing arts into the country’s educational system.

He suggested creating specialized training programs for arts educators and spotlighted initiatives such as the Department of Creative Economy and Talanta Hela, aimed at nurturing and monetizing local talent.

The president also talked about upcoming partnerships with Hollywood to strengthen Kenya’s film industry and provide local creatives with international market opportunities.

In addition, Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, disclosed that his office has directed the State Department to handle the payment for Kenya’s bid to host the African Grammy Awards.

“It was during the President’s recent trip to the USA that he connected with key figures in the creative economy, including Hollywood stars at Tyler Perry Studios,” Itumbi pointed out.

“One significant outcome from these interactions is a focused initiative to enhance Kenya’s creative economy and position the country as a key destination for global entertainment events.”

Itumbi further noted that a representative from the Grammy Awards who attended the town hall would meet with President Ruto later this week to discuss the bid.

“We have already instructed the State Department to initiate payments for Kenya’s bid to host the African Grammys,” he stated.

In response, President Ruto affirmed that the Ksh500 million payment has been processed, reiterating his government’s commitment to the project.

“We have already paid the Ksh500 million. This isn’t a future plan; it’s in action now,” President Ruto declared. “I believe the Grammys representative can confirm that we are on track to secure Kenya’s role in this important endeavor.”

Additionally, Dennis Itumbi announced that the government is seeking to host the World Creative Economy Conference in 2027, which would make Kenya the first African nation to host this prestigious event.

“I have proposed to the President, on behalf of the Creative Economy Coordination Office, that Kenya formally begins its bid to host the World Creative Economy Conference in 2027,” Itumbi remarked.

“This would unlock significant opportunities for our creative sector and further position Kenya as a leader in this area,” he added.