Gachagua urges artistes to create content promoting social values

DP Rigathi Gachagua (second-left) cuts a cake during the launch of the reality show 'The Bahati's Empire' on Netflix by Kevin and Diana Bahati. [DPCS]

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has appealed to artists to create content that promotes societal values and norms across generations, especially children.

Mr Gachagua also urged artists of all genres to shun and raise awareness on the negative impacts of drug abuse for a healthy nation.

Speaking in Nairobi at the launch of the reality show 'The Bahati's Empire' on Netflix by musician and filmmaker Kevin Bahati and his artiste wife Diana Bahati, the Deputy President said artists have a huge role in shaping the moral direction of society.

The Bahati's Empire is the first Kenyan reality show to air on Netflix, the global entertainment platform that is home to over 222 million subscribers in over 190 countries globally.

While congratulating Bahati for this major feat, Mr Gachagua said it is possible to influence morals through the creation of content that resonates with the realities of contemporary global society.

He told the star-studded event that good content is one that preserves, promotes and projects the values and norms of the people.

"Kenya as a society, we have values. We also have traditions and culture that we uphold. We have children who watch your content. What are you (artists) telling them?

"Be mindful of our children. Come up with content that does not corrupt our young people," the Deputy President told the forum which comprised leading Kenyans in the creatives industry.

In this debut show, Mr Gachagua said Bahati has shown other artists that it is possible to rise and break barriers, and insisted that content must cause positive impact on society.

"While Bahati has pioneered in this reality show, we have a moment to also showcase what Kenya has to offer the world of entertainment through clean, captivating, informative and highly influential content," he said.

Several artists in various genres in the creative industry were present during the launch.

Mr Gachagua asked them to avoid abusing drugs and support the Government in the fight against this vice. The Deputy President has been leading the war on illicit brews, drugs and substance abuse in the country.