The creative industry in Uganda is calling for increased investment to drive growth and development. According to Christine Namatumbwe, creatives are seeking expanded market access, financial support, and platforms to showcase their work. This call was made during the launch of "When Illusions Crack", a book authored by Bonita Mbabazi. The book highlights challenges facing the sector, including high taxes, limited financing, and inadequate market opportunities.
Bonita Mbabazi, author of "When Illusions Crack", emphasized the need for stronger partnerships between government, the private sector, and creatives. These partnerships are crucial for promoting innovation, creating employment opportunities, and positioning the creative economy as a key contributor to national development. Mbabazi's book aims to encourage young people struggling with hopelessness and self-doubt, as well as those pursuing ambitions not supported by those around them.
Mbabazi's book is a message of hope and resilience, urging young people to remain determined despite obstacles. The book seeks to challenge a culture that does not adequately encourage young people to pursue their dreams. Mbabazi plans to conduct school campaigns and community engagements to reach young people, particularly those vulnerable to destructive behaviors such as drug abuse.
Luz Aziz Al'Fadhul, editor of "When Illusions Crack", highlighted resilience as a central message in the publication. The book addresses a generation grappling with mental health challenges, insecurities, anxiety, and depression. Al'Fadhul noted that the poems in the book remind readers that they are not alone in their struggles and that others have overcome similar challenges.
Al'Fadhul urged creatives to recognize their influence in society and use their work to address social challenges. Poetry, writing, and other art forms remain powerful tools for inspiring change. He encouraged creatives to use their work to make a positive impact, saying that a poem written in tears can help dry another person's tears.
The launch of "When Illusions Crack" is part of a broader effort to promote Uganda's creative industry. Creatives are seeking support to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. By investing in the creative industry, the government and private sector can help drive growth, create employment opportunities, and promote national development.
The creative industry has the potential to be a significant contributor to Uganda's economy. With the right investment and support, creatives can produce innovative and impactful work that inspires change and promotes development. As Mbabazi and Al'Fadhul emphasized, resilience and determination are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success in the creative industry.
Key points
- Creatives in Uganda are calling for increased investment from the government and private sector to boost the country's creative industry.
