The United States Embassy in Kenya, in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce Kenya (AmCham), has announced the inaugural U.S.-Kenya Creative Economy Forum 2025, scheduled for June 5th in Nairobi.
This groundbreaking forum aims to bring together a dynamic mix of policymakers, investors, industry leaders, and creative innovators from both countries to catalyze investment and strengthen partnerships in Kenya’s rapidly growing creative sector.
Held under the theme “Powering the Future of the Creative Economy,” the forum will spotlight key sectors including film, music, and sports, which are gaining increasing global attention for their innovation and talent.
Marc Dillard, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Kenya, expressed optimism about the partnership. “My time in Kenya has shown me that this country has an amazing and energetic pool of creative young people. I am so excited to combine this energy with leading creative industries from the United States, where creativity helps propel our economy,” he said. “From Hollywood to professional sports to the world-leading music industry, the potential for U.S.-Kenya collaboration is boundless.”
The U.S. creative economy generates over $1 trillion annually, while Kenya’s creative sector is emerging as a significant contributor to GDP. The forum is expected to serve as a launchpad for sustained collaboration, rather than just a one-day event.
To this end, AmCham will lead a dedicated taskforce that will continue engagement through regular industry forums, trade missions, and collaborative projects focused on market access and shared growth in the creative industries.
“Kenya’s creative economy has tremendous untapped potential,” said Maxwell Okello, CEO of AmCham Kenya. “This forum will provide a platform to showcase that potential while facilitating meaningful connections between U.S. businesses and Kenyan creative entrepreneurs.”
The event underscores the strategic importance of the creative economy in fostering cross-border innovation, cultural exchange, and inclusive economic development.
Written By Rodney Mbua
