Kenyan musicians on Tuesday, July 27 gathered in Gatanga Murang’a county to grace Raila’s event dubbed Skiza Thanksgiving event.
The event hosted at SK Macharia’s home in Ndakaini saw top musicians in both gospel and secular in the country gather for the event.
From Ben Githae, to Genge artist Mejja, these musicians expressed their gratitude to the government for wavering taxes on their Skiza tunes earnings.
Other musicians present include:
Rufftone, Kikuyu gospel artists- Sir James, Martin Janet, and veteran secular artist Wangare wa Kabera among many more.
They asserted confidence that their earnings will now significantly increase after the 25% exemption in excise duty.
Speaking on the new move, Ben Githae praised the President for giving the musicians new dawn.
“We invited you here to celebrate the win we have received through the help we have received from his excellency the President, Prime Minister and Dr SK Macharia,” he said.
Alongside the local artists, a number of leaders were also present among them Siaya Senator James Orengo and Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria.
Others who graced the event are; Finance Committee Chair Gladys Wanga, Maoka Maore (Igembe North), Kanini Kega (Kieni) Maina Kamanda (Nairobi), and former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth.
Artists will now receive 43 cents for each shilling earned on Skiza Platform an increase of 27 cents.
However, they have urged telco behemoth Safaricom to consider adding another 9cts, bringing the total to 52.
They have also advocated for a restructuring of Kenya’s copyright boards in a move aimed at increasing their earnings.
