The impact of COVID-19 on Rwanda’s creative arts industry

The creative arts industry in Rwanda has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the country remains on lockdown, artists are facing challenges in earning a living due to the cancellation of events and gatherings. The outbreak has forced musicians to adapt and find new ways to continue their craft while adhering to social distancing measures. Adrew Kazibwe, an arts journalist, shed light on the effects of the pandemic on the creative arts industry during an interview with CNBC Africa. Kazibwe highlighted the financial struggles faced by artists who heavily rely on events for their income. The closure of live concerts and events has had a profound effect on the earning potential of musicians in Rwanda. Kazibwe emphasized that the majority of artists generated income through performances and events, making the pandemic's impact even more significant. With restrictions on gatherings and events in place, artists have been forced to explore alternative ways to showcase their talent and connect with their audience. Despite the challenges, Kazibwe noted a positive shift in how artists are adapting to the new normal. Many DJs and musicians have turned to social media to host live sessions and virtual concerts. From DJ Malno to saxophonist Stella Tushavi, artists have been leveraging online platforms to engage with their fans and continue sharing their music. The pandemic has served as a wake-up call for artists, prompting them to explore digital avenues to sustain their livelihoods. However, the transition to online platforms comes with its own set of challenges. Kazibwe highlighted the need for better implementation of copyright and intellectual property laws to protect artists' earnings from their digital works. Without proper regulations in place, artists may struggle to monetize their content effectively in the online space. The pandemic has underscored the importance of revisiting existing laws and regulations to facilitate a more sustainable model for artists in the digital age. Looking ahead, Kazibwe expressed optimism about the industry's evolution post-pandemic. He emphasized the need for stakeholders, including the government and cultural organizations, to collaborate on solutions that support artists in the absence of traditional events. Kazibwe called for discussions on intellectual property laws and copyrights to ensure that artists can continue to earn from their work beyond live performances. In terms of financial impact, Kazibwe noted that the creative industry globally generates approximately 2.25 trillion dollars annually, supporting over 29.5 million jobs. While specific figures on the losses incurred by Rwanda's creative arts industry are yet to be determined, the overall economic significance of the sector underscores the urgency of finding sustainable solutions in the face of the pandemic. As the creative arts industry navigates the challenges brought on by COVID-19, the resilience and adaptability of artists are shining through. Through innovation and digital transformation, Rwandan artists are reimagining their craft and finding new ways to connect with audiences amidst the crisis. The post-pandemic landscape presents an opportunity for stakeholders to reevaluate existing support structures and pave the way for a more sustainable and vibrant creative arts industry in Rwanda.