Actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has called for increased investment, intellectual property protection and stronger institutions to transform Africa’s creative influence into sustainable economic wealth.
RMD made the call at the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) WKND 2026, with the theme “One People, United in Culture, Creating for the World”, on Thursday in Lagos
According to him, Africa’s greatest wealth lies not only in natural resources but also in its stories, music, imagination and cultural heritage.
He said countries such as the U.S, South Korea and India had successfully used their cultural industries to influence global tastes and generate economic opportunities.
“Nollywood, South Korean entertainment and Indian cinema had demonstrated how cultural influence could shape global perceptions, consumer choices and tourism,” he said.
RMD described such influence as soft power, noting that investment, ownership and strong industries could transform it into economic power.
He said that Afrobeats, Nollywood, fashion, literature and visual arts were gaining international recognition, but popularity did not automatically translate into prosperity for Africa.
Drawing from his experience in Nollywood, he said talent and creativity could open opportunities, but sustained investment and strong institutions were necessary to maintain growth.
He called for improved access to finance, stronger intellectual property protection, reliable distribution networks and businesses capable of growing beyond individual creative achievements.
The Nollywood star said the theme of the event highlighted the importance of using Africa’s diversity as a strength.
He urged investors to finance creative businesses, policymakers to establish enabling environments and creatives to protect their intellectual property, build partnerships and take publishing seriously.
He said Africa must transform its growing cultural influence into investments, businesses, jobs and lasting wealth, stressing the importance of owning creative works and benefiting from their value.
Also speaking, Actress Uzo Aduba, said African music, film, fashion, literature and visual arts were attracting global attention, but much of their economic potential remained untapped.
Aduba said the priority should be transforming creative energy into jobs, businesses, infrastructure, ownership and sustainable industries for future generations.
