Nigerian Adekoya Oluwaseun Ayobami, founder of @bludotfirm and co-founder of @bspromotions_, recently took to instagram to share his insights on the challenges and limitations of hosting events in Nairobi, Kenya.
His thought-provoking post highlighted the financial constraints, lack of investor support, and limited opportunities faced by artists, content creators, and event organizers in the country's entertainment industry.
''Someone asking me when will they host ONE AFRICA FEST/ AFRONATION in Kenya, are you playing ? you think this a $100,000 or $500,000 concert. Okay the question is can you buy early bird ticket for $80 or $100?’’ asserted Ayobami.
Ayobami emphasized the financial aspect of organizing large-scale concerts, mentioning the price of tickets as a significant factor. He questioned the feasibility of selling early bird tickets at a higher price range, given the local market's perception of ticket costs. He stated, "Even 2500 Ksh ticket na wahala for Kenya is called too expensive." This sheds light on the price sensitivity of the audience and their reluctance to invest in higher-priced tickets.
''Forget it entertainment in general in Kenya still have long way to get it right.’’ said Ayobami
Furthermore, Ayobami discussed the challenges faced by artists and content creators in generating revenue from their craft. He highlighted the financial risks involved in producing high-quality music videos and the difficulty in recouping the costs, especially if the content does not reach a wider audience beyond Kenya's borders.
He stated, ''I can't blame an artist in Kenya who can't shoot video of 3-4Million Ksh because how will he/she make that money back even in Nigeria if your music did go out of that our border you will still make that cash back locally same thing goes with content creator how many of them get ambassador or marketing deals here?’’
This implies that the limited exposure and opportunities for artists in Kenya hinder their ability to invest in their craft and deliver high-quality content.
The lack of investment and sponsorship opportunities in Nairobi's entertainment scene was also a key point raised by Ayobami. He expressed frustration over the absence of investors and sponsors, which restricts the growth and innovation within the industry.
Ayobami noted, "Kenya is the same regular everyday entertainment. No investors, no sponsors." This limitation stifles creativity and prevents the introduction of new and exciting concepts that could potentially enhance the entertainment landscape in Nairobi.
''Even Nairobi is not Nairobing same fun every week na BlackStars,onyx,gemini way even if you try to give ideas on something new they won't accept and if you trying to do one they will give you wahala.’’
In contrast, Ayobami highlighted the vibrant party scenes in Lagos, Nigeria; Johannesburg, South Africa; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; and Tanzania, where events feature a variety of venues and outdoor locations. These cities embrace a diverse range of entertainment experiences, offering a contrast to the routine events found in Nairobi.
''LAGOS parties Nigeria, SA parties, Dubai Parties Tanzania crazy sh*ts different venues + crazy outdoors events not every night locked up inside darkness matching each others legs, but if there is no alternative na to just continue enjoying what's available.’’
Despite the challenges faced, Ayobami acknowledged that Nairobians continue to enjoy the available entertainment options. However, his instagram post serves as a call to action for stakeholders in the industry, urging them to explore innovative ideas, attract investors, and create a more conducive environment for artists, content creators, and event organizers to thrive.
In conclusion, Adekoya Oluwaseun Ayobami's instagram post has shed light on the challenges faced by the entertainment industry in Nairobi, Kenya.
This candid analysis calls for a collective effort to address these obstacles and create a more vibrant and prosperous entertainment scene in Nairobi.
How Kenya's street food content is thriving on TikTok