By Ronald Wesse

The fourth edition of the Pwani Innovation Week, held from Monday, October 2nd, to Friday, October 6th, 2023, was an enriching experience for attendees.

This annual event, hosted by the Swahili Pot Hub Foundation and its partners, is dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and strengthening the innovation ecosystem in the coastal region of Eastern Africa.

This year's theme, "Sailing Beyond Borders: Empowering Youths in the Digital Economy for a Sustainable Future," set the stage for a five-day event graced by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir and the First Daughter Charlene Ruto.

The event featured prominent speakers and stakeholders who shared insights, inspiring young entrepreneurs and encouraging the exploration of new business ideas.

Notably, the event emphasized entrepreneurship and self-reliance among the younger generation.

Raphael Muchomba, a 31-year-old artist, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.

"I am very delighted by what the Swahili Pot Hub is doing, bringing together innovative minds and providing them with a platform to exhibit their skills and brilliance to the world," he said.

Muchomba is an Operations Manager at African Nomads Art Space, currently based in Mombasa but hailing from Nairobi.

The foundation focuses on creating a hub for artists to produce work in various forms, including ceramics, graffiti, illustrations, drawings, and graphic recording.

"Basically, we offer art spaces for both local and international artists who need a platform to showcase their work," he explained.

The connection between art and innovation was a central discussion point at the event.

Art is not limited to traditional forms like paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photography; it transcends boundaries.

Art and innovation both share a foundation in creativity, driving new business ideas that are both innovative and profitable, as pointed out in a Forbes report by Cristian Randeri.

African Nomads Art Space (ANAS), situated in the serene surroundings of Nyali-Mombasa, provides a remarkable experience, displaying authentic African contemporary art, including murals, portraits, and photorealistic paintings.

Benjamin Livoi, CEO and founder of ANAS, envisioned a space that would inspire creatives to work on their projects, host events, and contribute to the development of the local art culture.

In Livoi's journey, entrepreneurship and self-employment played pivotal roles. He transitioned from selling electronic items to venture into art, prioritizing his dream over financial gain.

His aim was to promote the art culture in Mombasa and address the absence of art galleries in the vibrant tourist centre.

"What primarily drove me was the realization that Mombasa is a significant tourist destination, but it lacked art galleries. I had to find a way to change that," he said.

To turn his vision into reality, Livoi established his firm in 2022, providing employment opportunities to over ten young adults, including Raphael Muchomba.

Muchomba's impressive photorealistic painting of Mwembe Tayari is a testament to his artistic talent.

"My goal was to capture the daily life of Mombasa in a time capsule. I started by focusing on our immediate local community and gradually expanding," the 31-year-old artist shared.

Muchomba employs photorealism to capture specific moments for archival purposes, aiming to preserve the East African culture for generations.

Sally Bella, a writer and embroiderer, is one of the youngest members of ANAS. She found her passion in decorative designs using hand or machine needlework, a craft she describes as "painting using strings."

She highlighted the unique atmosphere of an art gallery, noting that it provides an inspirational environment for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

" I love the combination of being inside an art gallery surrounded by all these beautiful pieces from different artists. It's always an artistical moment for me and everyone who loves art to be in such a place," said Bella.

The African art scene is burgeoning, with young individuals tapping into the orange economy for self-reliance.

Small business creation offers a path to a sustainable future, and entrepreneurship is a key driver.

In 2009, the government introduced the Kazi Kwa Vijana Initiative, which supports young people with funding for self-employment and entrepreneurial skills, reflecting a commitment to empowerment.

Looking forward, Ben Livoi expressed his motivation to continue creating art and expanding his reach.

"I feel encouraged to keep making art, seek strategic collaborations, and explore new markets," he remarked, reflecting his enthusiasm for the future.