Kenyan artists Suzanna Owiyo and Christine Kamau have spoken about persistent gender disparities in the music industry, sharing experiences of overcoming cultural prejudices and professional obstacles. Owiyo, who began her career in the early 2000s, recounted facing ridicule but credited music with transforming her journey from Kisumu to performing for global figures like Nelson Mandela and President Uhuru Kenyatta, as noted in a 2019 report.
Kamau, a Nakuru-born trumpeter, highlighted the lack of female representation in music, describing societal expectations that conflict with her identity as a female musician. She recalled instances where male colleagues had greater mobility after performances. In 2015, she launched the 'Women In Music' initiative with the Goethe Institute to connect African female artists and create professional opportunities, according to the article.
The program, which evolved from panel discussions to include performances, addresses systemic issues across the continent. Kamau mentioned planned events in Sudan, where female artists face severe restrictions, though political instability has disrupted these plans. Both artists emphasized the need for female musicians to establish distinct brands and navigate unequal pay structures, as reported in the 2019 coverage.
Owiyo advised aspiring artists to prioritize patience and purpose, stressing that success requires sustained effort. Kamau noted the economic value of music has increased, creating more opportunities for artists in Kenya and across Africa, according to the source material.
