Raburu happy after media support in his campaign against exploitation creatives
Journalist Willis Raburu has come out strongly speaking of a recent pattern of brands failing to honour creatives with their hard-earned payments after completing their tasks.
Raburu, while speaking of his current experience with a brand after what he stated was failing to pay him after he rendered advertising services to the company, recalled how other creatives have been reaching out to him with similar experiences.
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In a post on his official X account on Thursday, December 11, 2025, Raburu lauded creatives and companies who have taken up the bold step of expressing the challenges creatives encounter with several corporations.
“Today, I want to acknowledge every media house that chose to cover this story. Nasema Asante. We all understand the influence that major corporates and sponsors can hold in shaping narratives, so your decision to report independently is not lost on me,” Raburu said.
He went on adding, “It speaks to the professional courage and editorial integrity that keeps our industry honest. Over the last few days, I’ve also heard from many creatives, SMEs, event owners, producers, and young hustlers who say they’ve faced similar situations,” Raburu added.
On his part, Raburu revealed that after an interaction with creatives, indeed, his was not just an isolated experience but instead a pattern many creatives have been going through.
“Some have even asked if they can join or support this process. Your messages confirm something important: this isn’t an isolated experience; it’s a pattern. As my own matter proceeds through the proper legal channels, I remain committed to handling it respectfully and in accordance with the law,” Raburu noted.
One year later, no pay!
His remarks come just days after Raburu shared a cautionary story for creatives and freelancers about the risks of working on holiday contracts.
On Sunday, December 7, 2025, he revealed that even after delivering work and submitting all required documents, he had not been paid a year later. Raburu said this happens often with big companies during festive campaigns, where budgets are tight, timelines are rushed, and creatives are asked to start work before contracts are fully processed.
In his message, he described how companies often delay payment with excuses.
“You hear things like, ‘Just start; we will sort the paperwork. Or legal is processing. Or finance will follow up. Things like these sound familiar? Ama sign tu ututumie,” he explained. He added that despite meeting all requirements, including submitting reports and meeting with lawyers, the payment has still not come through.
Raburu warned creatives to be careful during the festive season. He said December is not a shortcut to easy money but a trap for those who are not cautious.
“Dear Creatives, December is not a shortcut; it’s a trap if you’re not careful. A year later, I am owed millions!” he wrote, highlighting the financial risks of rushing into festive campaigns without proper protection.
