Talks underway to bring Grammy Awards to Kenya – Ruto

William Muthama 16th August, 2025 03:42 PM

President William Ruto has announced that discussions are ongoing to bring an African edition of the Grammy Awards to Kenya, emphasising the government’s commitment to building the country’s creative industry.

Speaking at the 97th Kenya Music Festival State Concert in Sagana, Nyeri, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, Ruto highlighted plans to establish world-class music studios in Kenya and set the stage for hosting the continental Grammy Awards.

“Next month in the United States, I will meet with the Recording Academy, organizers of the Grammy Awards, to fast-track plans for establishing world-class studios here in Kenya and to set in motion the journey towards eventually hosting an African edition of the Grammy Awards in Nairobi,” the President said.

He addressed skeptics who doubt the feasibility of the initiative, assuring that the government will deliver results that benefit Kenyans.

“As usual, there are those who doubt, the cynics who question everything we do. But as we have always done, we will answer them with tangible outcomes that benefit Kenyans,” Ruto said.

Grammy Awards trophy displayed at the Recording Academy event.PHOTO/@https://www.grammy.com/news/2024-grammys-nominations-full-winners-nominees-list

Ruto underscored the role of music and performing arts in nation-building, noting that they promote positive values, integrity, and excellence among young people.

He encouraged investment in creative education and emphasised that world-class studios will provide local artists with the tools to compete globally.

The President also highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate performing arts into Kenya’s education system, supporting the growth of talent through specialised curricula, partnerships with Hollywood, and initiatives like the Department of Creative Economy and Talanta Hela.

Ruto’s announcement follows his December 2024 disclosure that Kenya had officially placed a bid to host the Grammy Awards, paying Ksh 500 million toward the initiative.

At the time, he described the project as part of a broader strategy to position Kenya as a hub for global entertainment, nurture local talent, and enhance the country’s engagement in the international creative industry.

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William Muthama

William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]

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