Hannatu Musawa, Juliet Ehimuan Seek to Boost Africa’s Creative Economy

Ferdinand  Ekechukwu

Following the successful hosting of Nigeria’s first-ever tech ecosystem mixer, DICE, the stage is set for an array of creative industry practitioners (filmmakers, actors, performing artistes, content creators, etc.), tech founders, digital agencies, influencers among others to engage in robust conversations with key players and enablers in the creative ecosystem.

DICE, an acronym for Digital Innovation and Creative Excellence, an initiative of Beyond Limits’ platform for fostering, networking and collaboration among Africa’s dreamers within the creative industry and beyond, pulled participants across sectors, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and innovation at the second edition of DICE.

The event held recently exceeded expectations, building upon the success of its inaugural edition in November 2023.  DICE 2.0 served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, uniting diverse stakeholders committed to accelerating Africa’s tech and creative revolution.

The spotlight was on Africa’s creative economy as Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, Founder & CEO of Beyond Limits, engaged in a keynote fireside chat featuring Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy.

The conversation provided valuable insights into the pivotal role of creativity in Africa’s economic landscape.

With Africa’s creative industry experiencing exponential growth, Musawa emphasised creating an environment conducive for innovation and entrepreneurship. She discussed the government’s commitment to supporting the creative sector through policies that promote investment, protect intellectual property rights, and facilitate access to funding and resources.

“As a Nigerian, one thing that we know and that is part of our identity is our creativity,” said Musawa. Stressing how important it is for talent in the creative industry to be part of the economy’s decision-making process. 

“To me, it’s a temporary position that will conclude in four years”, she said, referring to her ministerial role. However, for those in the creative industry, it’s their means of livelihood.

“They’ve invested their time and effort to advocate for policies that will foster the industry’s growth. Therefore, I’m going to tap into the network and resources of people within the industry to develop policies to ensure their voices are heard, and they have a seat at the decision-making table,” she added. 

Ehimuan, a leading figure in Africa’s tech ecosystem, having served as the Director of Google West Africa for over a decade, echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and the private sector to harness the full potential of Africa’s creative talents. She spotlighted the role of technology in driving innovation and expanding the reach of African creativity on a global scale.

As Africa continues to position itself as a hub of creativity and innovation, events like DICE 2.0 serve as catalysts for dialogue, collaboration, mentorship, and action. By harnessing its people’s collective talents and resources, Africa is poised to emerge as a global leader in the creative economy, driving sustainable growth, prosperity, and social development across the continent and beyond.