President William Ruto on Wednesday, April 1 met with Gengetone and Urbantone artistes at State House Nairobi, who raised alarming concerns over the loss of rights to their music through questionable contracts with foreign entities.

The artistes collectively lost over 700 songs, among them the iconic “Sipangwingwi” by Exray, a track that became synonymous with public discourse during the 2022 election period.

“I met Gengetone and Urbantone artistes, who shared deeply troubling experiences regarding the loss of rights to their music due to questionable contracts with foreign entities,” said Ruto.

The President described the situation as regrettable, acknowledging that Kenya’s young creatives continue to face exploitation despite their enormous talent and significant contribution to the country’s cultural identity.

“It is regrettable that our young creatives continue to face exploitation despite their immense talent and contribution to our cultural identity,” he added.

In response, Ruto said he has facilitated legal support to ensure the artistes are adequately represented in court, and that practical measures have been agreed upon to safeguard their interests and guarantee fair compensation for their work.

On the action taken, the President said, “I have facilitated legal support to ensure they are adequately represented in court, and we have agreed on practical measures to safeguard their interests and ensure they receive fair reward for their work.”

He further revealed that he has asked the National Assembly, through the Majority Leader, to fast-track the Creative Economy Bill 2026 alongside critical copyright reforms.

He termed these steps as necessary; to protect artistes, strengthen intellectual property rights, and secure the future of Kenya’s creative economy.

“I have also asked the National Assembly, through the Majority Leader, to fast-track the Creative Economy Bill 2026 alongside critical copyright reforms,’ Ruto said.

The President further informed the artistes that the government has established a digital portal on e-Citizen to aid royalty collection and distribution.

He signaled a broader commitment to building a more structured and protective framework for the country’s creative industry.