By Jimmy Chazama:
A 2026 Africa Creator Economy Report 2.0 has exposed gaps in the creative sector.
The report says most young people in Africa value arts and culture but do not give it financial support.
The study warns that without stronger structures, the continent’s creative economy would not sustain its talent.
The report reveals that 85 percent of young people believe that creative work is important, yet 78 percent spend little or nothing on it.
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It also says this gap means creators are praised but not backed with money.
The report reveals that six out of 10 creators earn less than K200,000 a month and more than half have never received outside funding.
Despite the setbacks, the study shows that the industry is valued at about K5.35 trillion and is projected to grow to nearly K31.04 trillion by 2030.
The report comes barely two weeks after the Department of Arts in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture held consultative meetings across the country to seek views in relation to the National Digital Map for the creative sector.
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Meanwhile, some artists in the country have reacted to the report.
Musicians Union of Malawi (Mum) President Vita Chirwa, who is also Kalimba Band leader, said the creative sector needed support for it to make progress.
“Art is needed everywhere but people are not willing to pay for it. There is a need for people in the country to change its mindset towards the creative and treasure it by paying for it,” Chirwa said.
Musician Tuno said the country needed to rise up and support the creative sector.
“We need everyone in this. The corporate world has for long praised the industry but is not forthcoming when it comes to funding. Artists cannot live by art only but are forced to do other hustles to survive,” the ‘Indedi’ star said.
Film Association of Malawi Vice President Gilbert Moyo shared Chirwa’s sentiments.
“For instance, many people want to watch content such as movies on social media for free. Many do not want to subscribe and yet filmmakers or content creators invest so much in it,” Moyo said.
He said it was high time people started patronising film premieres and screenings as well as various shows by paying.
“We can only grow if we get support; otherwise, without that, the creative sector will continue to struggle,” Moyo said.
During the 12th edition of Art in the Park, visual artists called upon the government, private sector and well-wishers to spend money on art and not overlook it.
Over 40 visual artists exhibited quality works during Art in the Park, with art lovers praising them, but there were low sales.
