ODM leader Rt. Hon Raila Odinga, has arrived at Ndakaini, Gatanga Constituency to preside over the Skiza Thanksgiving Ceremony to appreciate and reward Kenyan musicians.
Odinga and his wife, Mama Ida Odinga arrived in Gatanga, Murang’a County together with a host of legislators, governors and local leaders for the event dubbed the Skiza Thanksgiving Ceremony where local musicians are being celebrated.
Skiza Thanksgiving Ceremony will also feature a Mt Kenya Business Leaders meeting where Odinga will be representing President Uhuru Kenyatta. The event is hosted by Royal Media Services Chairman S.K Macharia.
While Tweeting about the event, ODM party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna said artistes want counties to built recording studios, pointing out , “Under Schedule 4 of the Constitution it is the responsibility of County Governments to built public entertainment amenities. This is why it is critical to fully support Devolution with increased resources.”
Sifuna also pointed out that the ODM party, through Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga, who also chairs the Parliamentary Finance Committee, had ensured the removal of 20% excise duty on Skiza Tunes, thus guaranteeing higher returns to artistes on Skiza and other online platforms.
Speaking at the event, Equity Group Chief Operating Officer Dr. Julius Kipng’etich told the artists to ensure they are disciplined and work hard. He urged them to ensure they have mentors to guide them through the paths to success, and also urged the artists to save for days and also, engage in community service as a way of giving back to the society.
“You don’t have a pay slip. You must then save for a rainy day. So, Make sure you buy insurance for your health, and also make sure you prepare your pension when you reach old age, or the day you are not able to earn money, ” Dr. Kipng’etich advised the artists.
Concerning Community service, the Equity Group boss told the artists to form associations to reach young musicians
“We are here today because somebody saw that you had a need and helped you. When you are successful, please go and help somebody else…If you are successful, and God has given you that talent, for Heaven’s sake, pull somebody else up.. Create a chain, such that, when somebody has helped you, and you go and help somebody, I guarantee you, God will bless you in immense ways,” Dr. Kipng’etich stated.