KENYAN ARTISTS REQUESTS THE CHIEF COMMANDER TO BAIL THEM FROM COVID-19 CHAINS

KENYAN ARTISTS REQUESTS THE CHIEF COMMANDER TO BAIL THEM FROM COVID-19 CHAINS

By Allan Chesang (African Times Guest Writer)

The entertainment industry is the fulcrum of

society’s wellness. It is not only an employer of

many young people but a critical avenue for

emotional release, social interactions that yield

friendships, business and other relationships. It

allows us to celebrate our gains and lift us up in

our low moments…

The entertainment industry supports a whole

ecosystem. Our DJ’s, waiters, dancers,

bouncers and regular security, suppliers of

various products, artists among many others…

Most importantly, the entertainment industry is

an alternative route to success for

underprivileged youth in slums and other areas

who would otherwise be delinquent or involved

in mainstream crime and drug abuse.

The closure of entertainment spots for

prolonged periods has a significant

consequential loss in the long run. Many

comedians, thespians and artists’ careers are

on hold.

There are many whose stars have been

dimmed. Some will not be able to become the

stars they hoped to be… Some just won’t shine

again.

We urge the government to engage with

stakeholders and find safe ways for the

entertainment industry to get back on track. We

should all be thinking of how to reduce the

negative impact of this pandemic… It is prudent

to ensure that we take preventive measures

that are also not counterproductive in the long

run. Society needs an avenue to release stress

and find happiness.

(Allan Chesang is a commentator on socio-

political issues and the Founder of Allan

Chesang Foundation Kenya)