The Nairobi governor says he helped open up the city for photographers and content creators and will not support measures that interfere with their livelihoods.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has pushed back against claims that content creators are being charged to take photos and shoot videos in the city.

Speaking about the issue, Sakaja dismissed the reports as “nonsense” and said he has previously fought to make Nairobi more accessible to young people earning a living through photography and content creation.

Sakaja recalled a time when photographers faced restrictions over permits and licences, making it difficult to shoot in the city without being subjected to what he described as unnecessary harassment.

“Kama kuna mtu alifungulia hiyo nafasi ya kupiga picha ni mimi,” the governor said, stressing his role in creating room for photographers to work.

Sakaja on Content Creators Making a Living

The governor said there is a difference between large productions and young creatives working with a phone or camera.

According to Sakaja, local television and international productions may sometimes pay because their operations can involve stopping vehicles or using public spaces on a larger scale.

But he questioned why an individual photographer trying to make a living should face similar treatment.

He gave the example of a creator who could earn KSh5,000 from taking photos and make up to KSh150,000 a month depending on the amount of work available.

“Nani atatoa mboka yao kwa mdomo, siwezi!” Sakaja said.

His remarks underline the growing role of Nairobi’s creative economy, where photographers, videographers and social media creators increasingly depend on public spaces to produce content for clients and audiences.

For many young creatives, access to the city is not simply about taking pictures. It is part of how they make a living.