A Vigil to honor the life and times of late Kenyan actor Charles Ouda was held Wednesday, Feb 14.
CS Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Ababu Namwamba attended the event where he spoke of the late Charlie's remarkable contribution to the creative economy.
Mourning the loss of such talent, Ababu noted that the industry has suffered a loss
"I'm here really on behalf of the ministry and Government. Today is poleni sana to the family and friends of Charles, and to all creatives who all have benefitted immensely from the immense incredible contribution of the man you simply call Charlie," he said.
Namwamba acknowledged the innovation from Kenyans.
"As the minister responsible for creatives, I feel a great sense of loss for an incredibly talented young person and the timing couldn't be worse," the CS added.
"It comes at a time when we are making incredible strides to consolidate and unleash the full potential of the film industry and I have no doubt that Charles would have made an amazing contribution, at the important moment bringing his experience, his creativity, to this sector that I have so much faith in," Namwamba said.
He noted that there are many opportunities in the sector
"I believe in the creativity of Kenyans and Charli and those of his generation will always be appreciated, will always be celebrated for showing the world what Kenya is made of, what the youth of this country are capable of."
"It's been a really terrible season for us. Just the other day we lost a brilliant young boy Kevin Kiptum, the World record holder, now here we are again mourning another incredible talent Kenya. Poleni sana."
"As a Ministry, as a Government, we stand with you in this difficult moment, we pray for the soul of Charli. May God the Lord keep his soul well. There is a peace that comes from above, that transcends all manner and that is the peace I wish for you, and may God favor you with that peace"
He said the creative industry is a priority.
"For creatives, I have sat here, i have listened to a number of you and I must say I am incredibly proud. You are such a beautiful family. You care about each other, you care in life and you care in passing. That means a hell of a lot. I applaud you for that, you have a minister and government that is walking with you every step of the way. Poleni sana. you did some get-togethers to put some resources to support the family and preparations for the send-off. We didn't manage to join you for that, but we will make a contribution directly to the family. Poleni sana and God bless you" he concluded his remarks
Charlie will be cremated Thursday, Feb 15.
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