Ruto Announces Sony, Universal & Warner Music to Establish Offices in Nairobi

President William Ruto has announced a major milestone for Kenya’s creative economy following a meeting with Victoria Oakley, Chief Executive Officer of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), the global body representing the recorded music industry worldwide.

During the meeting, President Ruto revealed that three of the world’s biggest record labels Sony Music, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group have all agreed to establish a presence in Nairobi.

“It was a pleasure meeting Victoria Oakley, Chief Executive Officer of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry,” said President Ruto. “I’m encouraged by the shared commitment to strengthening Kenya’s creative economy and positioning Nairobi as Africa’s next major hub for the recorded music industry.”

The President expressed delight at the decision by the three global music giants to set up operations in the Kenyan capital. “I am particularly delighted that Sony Music, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group have all agreed to establish a presence in Nairobi,” he stated. “This is a significant vote of confidence in Kenya’s creative talent, our policy direction, and the reforms underway to build a globally competitive music ecosystem.”

The move is expected to have far-reaching implications for Kenyan artistes, producers, and music industry professionals, providing unprecedented access to global distribution networks, recording facilities, and international marketing support.

Ruto said  that the focus now shifts to implementation, with the government committed to creating an enabling environment for all stakeholders in the music value chain.

“The next phase is implementation, creating an environment where artistes, producers, publishers and investors can thrive together, generating jobs, exports and new opportunities for Kenyan creatives,” he said.

The Head of State reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning Kenya as a creative powerhouse on the continent. “Kenya is open for music. Nairobi is ready,” President Ruto declared.