Nairobi Hosts First Digital Media Factory as Kenya Targets One Million New Jobs

Kenya aims to generate one million jobs within two years through a new initiative establishing Digital Media Factories (DMFs) across the country.

Senior Advisor in the Council of Economic Advisors, Moses Kuria, launched the first DMF at Posta House in Nairobi, outlining a strategy designed to boost the nation's digital economy. The initiative aligns with the Coalition for Jobs, led by the Office of the Deputy President, and is expected to significantly impact Kenya's job market and GDP.

The plan rests on three pillars: "Kazi Kwa Ground," focusing on content related to industrialization and housing; "Kazi Mitandaoni," targeting online job creation and skills development; and "Kazi Majuu," which aims to connect Kenyan youth with international opportunities. The DMFs will provide young people with the necessary tools and environment to thrive in the creative economy. The government will not impose content restrictions, promoting a free and open environment for content creators.

Kuria emphasizes the importance of this open approach, ensuring that the centres provide a space for diverse voices, even those critical of the current administration. Head of Presidential Special Projects & Creative Economy, Dennis Itumbi, highlights the practical benefits for digital media enthusiasts, including those running online TV and radio stations.

The DMFs will be equipped with computers and cameras available for rent, facilitating the scaling of content creation. Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT and Digital Economy Eng. John Tanui, reiterates the government's commitment to its five-pillar strategy, focusing on a digital superhighway to bolster the country’s digital infrastructure and further support the growth of the digital economy.

The creation of Digital Media Factories represents a strategic move by the Kenyan government to harness the potential of the digital and creative industries, providing a pathway to substantial job creation and economic growth, and positioning Kenya as a hub for digital content creation in the region. The initiative builds upon the growth experienced by the creative industry following the digital migration a decade ago.