Kenyan comedian Francis Munyao Peter, popularly known as MCA Tricky, has raised serious concerns about the disconnect between politicians and young creatives, urging the government to do more to support the youth in the arts. During a recent interview, Tricky shared his frustrations over the frequent promises made by political leaders to enhance the Kenyan entertainment industry, which are often left unfulfilled.
He expressed disappointment in how many political leaders initiate projects aimed at boosting the arts, such as building theaters or transforming the creative sector into a revenue-generating industry, but fail to follow through. According to Tricky, these promises remain largely empty, leaving the youth disillusioned and unsupported. “They start projects that vanish in no time, and the youth are left frustrated and unsupported,” he said.
As a veteran comedian, Tricky knows all too well the challenges faced by young creatives in Kenya. He reflected on his own rise in the entertainment industry, stating that he achieved success despite the lack of governmental support. This struggle has motivated him to speak out about the difficulties faced by upcoming comedians and other creatives. He also noted how many young people have lost hope in pursuing careers in comedy or other art forms due to the absence of tangible support from the government.
The comedian further emphasized that fear plays a significant role in stifling the voices of young creatives. Many are afraid to speak out about the challenges they face, worrying about the consequences. Tricky himself has faced pressure from some people to remain silent on the issues affecting the creative sector. This fear, he believes, is a major barrier to progress and stifles the potential of the youth in the country.
Moreover, Tricky expressed concern that politicians are using young people for their own agendas without addressing the real problems affecting them. He pointed out that while youth are often enlisted to push political agendas, the promises made to them rarely materialize in meaningful ways. “Politics affects everyone. There’s a dangerous assumption within government circles that politics is only for them,” he said, underscoring the need for a more inclusive approach.
In light of these frustrations, Tricky is now considering a career in politics, asserting that the youth should not shy away from leadership roles. He believes that if the political environment continues to negatively impact his comedy, he might be forced to step away from the entertainment industry altogether. His comments underscore his belief that the youth should be actively involved in leadership and governance, not only to improve their circumstances but to shape the future of the country.
Tricky also advocated for the inclusion of governance as a subject in the school curriculum. While acknowledging the existence of governance themes in some set books, he argued that it’s not enough for students to simply learn about governance in theory. He believes that young people should be empowered to practice governance in real life, equipping them with the skills needed to navigate and shape the political landscape.
In conclusion, MCA Tricky urged young creatives to use their art as a platform for expression, despite the fears and challenges they may face. He encouraged them to be vocal about the issues that affect them and to remain persistent in their pursuit of success, even when faced with obstacles.
