Ruto Awards Millions to Content Creators at Kalasha Festival 2026

President William Ruto has announced a major boost for Kenyan content creators, promising millions in funding during the 14th Kalasha International Film and TV Market Festival and Awards.

Speaking on Saturday, May 2 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), the President said the government is ready to directly support creatives who focus on important national issues.

Ruto revealed that he will personally offer Ksh10 million to creators producing content related to affordable housing and healthcare. These are two key areas the President says he deeply cares about.

“I want to support those working in film and art, especially in areas like housing. I am asking the Kenya Film Commission to include these categories. I will give Ksh10 million each for projects on housing and health,” Ruto said.

He added that he is passionate about improving the lives of Kenyans through better housing and healthcare, while also creating opportunities for young people.

The Kalasha Awards, often referred to as the “Kenyan Oscars,” were started in 2009 to celebrate excellence in the local film and TV industry.

During this year’s event, which attracted over 3,000 participants from more than 30 countries, Ruto also introduced new plans to grow the creative sector.

One of the key announcements was that 30 percent of all government advertising will now be given to creative platforms. This move aims to support young talents in film, digital content, and music.

Ruto also confirmed that the government is ready to work closely with creatives to help them tell Kenyan stories and grow their careers.

In addition, he directed the National Treasury to look into tax incentives that will attract international filmmakers to shoot their projects in Kenya.

Parliament has also been asked to speed up the Creative Economy Bill 2026, which will help protect the rights of creatives and ensure they benefit from their work.

The President further said that future affordable housing projects will include creative spaces such as modern studios to support content production.

Meanwhile, Panos Panay, President of the Recording Academy, is expected to visit Nairobi from May 26 to May 29. He will hold talks with President Ruto as part of efforts to strengthen creative partnerships between Kenya and the United States.