Creativity has always been a powerful force across Africa, alive in music, dance, design, craft, storytelling, digital arts and countless everyday practices. Yet, despite its richness, the continent’s creative talent is often undervalued or unsupported. Many artists and makers have the skills, but not always the tools or guidance to turn their creativity into sustainable livelihoods.
That need is what inspired Building the Creative Economy in Africa, a new set of teaching materials developed directly from our work in the Decolonising Education for Peace in Africa (DEPA) project. The DEPA programme (2020–2025) worked across 16 countries in Africa, partnering with teachers, creatives, cultural practitioners, universities and community organisations. Over these years, a clear pattern emerged: across diverse contexts, creatives wanted practical, culturally grounded guidance to help them build viable creative businesses. They asked for learning that recognised Africa’s own knowledge systems, celebrated heritage, and supported economic empowerment; not generic models imported from elsewhere. Building the Creative Economy in Africa is our response to that call.
The course introduces learners to the foundations of the creative economy and walks them through key steps such as identifying your niche, developing a business, marketing your product, and building creative collaborations. It also addresses sustainability and resilience which are vital for creatives navigating unpredictable economic conditions. The materials combine videos, case studies, reflective tasks, and practical activities so that the content feels both accessible and actionable.
What makes this course distinctive is that it is rooted in African realities. Every example, activity and narrative draws on insights from the DEPA network, visual artists in Zimbabwe, musicians in South Africa, craft makers in Zambia, and educators across the region. These perspectives helped us shape a learning experience that honours African creativity while also offering concrete steps toward professional and economic growth. Through an approach inspired by Ubuntu, the course emphasises collaboration, community and shared flourishing.