‘EXPOSURE DOESN’T PAY BILLS’ ZACHARY SAITOTI CALLS OUT CLIENTS EXPLOITING KENYAN CREATIVES

Renowned Creative Director Zachary Saitoti has opened up on the unfair treatment of Kenyan creatives, addressing rampant issues of unpaid work and payment delays that plague the industry.

The multi-talented photographer and event curator shared his own painful experience of being offered ‘life-changing exposure’ instead of payment for a logo design project in 2012. “I spent weeks refining concepts only to receive a vague promise of future collaboration and a basket of merchandise as a token of appreciation. Meanwhile, last time I checked, CBK wasn’t accepting merchandise and hugs as legal tender.” said Saitoti.

He advises creatives on how to avoid such inconveniences, “Have the Kenyan-friendly contract: Include a ‘Force Majeure’ Clause to protect yourself from Nairobi’s unpredictable realities. Payment terms in bold 50% upfront via M-Pesa. Balance due before final delivery. Revision limits on projects with additional charges.”