Capital markets should back Africa’s creative economy —Kwairanga

The Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Umaru Kwairanga, has called on African capital markets to invest in the continent’s growing creative and innovation sectors.

Speaking at the Africa Soft Power Summit in Nairobi, he said industries like music, film, and digital innovation should be treated as viable investment assets, not just cultural exports.

Kwairanga noted that while African stars such as Burna Boy and Tyla are gaining global success, the broader ecosystem still lacks proper financing, monetisation structures, and value chains.

He urged financial institutions and exchanges to evolve beyond traditional sectors and support creators, tech entrepreneurs, and intellectual property-driven businesses.

According to him, stronger investment frameworks are needed to help Africa’s creative economy scale sustainably and deliver wider economic value.