Government Spokesman and Presidential Advisor on Special Interests Isaac Mwaura has called on Kenya’s creative sector to deliberately promote patriotism, nationhood, and “afropragmatism” through art, fashion, and innovation.

The call came during the 4th Edition of the I&R Models High Fashion Show at Pride Inn Azure Hotel in Westlands on the night of December 6, 2025.

Promoting national pride

Speaking to upcoming designers, models, and entrepreneurs, Mwaura emphasized the role of the creative economy in instilling national pride while showcasing African identity.

“Further, I encouraged the creative industry to promote patriotism, nationhood, and Afropragmatism through art, fashion, and innovation,” he wrote in a detailed thread on his X account dated December 7, 2025.

The event, themed around a white-and-gold dress code and branded “Beauty in eye… Kuvaa Paper!!”, brought together emerging talent under the banner “Creative Economy: Supporting Youth Talent in the Fashion & Modelling Industry.”

Mwaura used the occasion to highlight the government’s deliberate investments in the sector as part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which prioritises youth employment and wealth creation.

Government support for talent development

“I also highlighted and explained the Government’s achievements and strategies in the creative economy towards job creation, and its commitment to supporting talent across the country,” Mwaura stated.

He commended I&R Models for providing a consistent platform for upcoming artists and entrepreneurs, describing the showcase as a model of how fashion and modeling can drive economic inclusion.

“Yesternight I graced the I&R Models High Fashion Show’s 4th Edition at Pride Inn Azure Hotel in Westlands, taking time to encourage the upcoming artists and entrepreneurs,” he posted, alongside photographs of models in elegant outfits blending contemporary designs with African aesthetics.

Afropragmatism and practical patriotism

Mwaura stressed that patriotism in the creative space should be practical, coining “afropragmatism” as a deliberate fusion of African cultural identity with innovative and market-driven solutions.

His call aligns with Kenya Kwanza administration interventions, including talent development funds, export promotion for Kenyan designs, and partnerships with private sector players to create sustainable jobs in fashion, film, music, and visual arts.

The 4th Edition of the I&R Models High Fashion Show was supported by multiple sponsors, including UNESCO, reflecting growing recognition of Kenya’s creative industry on both local and international stages.