PWDs take centre stage in creative masterclasses, music sessions and high-level discussions on Africa’s creative economy.
Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are making their mark in Africa’s creative industry, demonstrating their talents, creativity and professional potential at the ongoing Creative Africa Nexus Weekend (CANEX WKND) 2026 in Lagos.
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), in partnership with Discovering Ability with Persons with Disabilities (DADI), is leading efforts to promote disability inclusion at the international creative gathering, with persons with disabilities taking active roles in activities on Day Two of the event.
Held at the Wole Soyinka Centre in Lagos under the theme, “One People, United in Culture, Creating for the World,” Day Two focused on monetisation, business expansion and professional development within Africa’s creative economy.
However, beyond the business opportunities and creative exhibitions, the active participation of persons with disabilities emerged as a major highlight, reinforcing the message that disability should never prevent anyone from exploring their creative potential or contributing to economic development.
PWDs demonstrate talents and creative abilities
According to the NCPWD, persons with disabilities participated in various activities, including storytelling, artificial intelligence (AI) and creative masterclasses, the Music Hub and the CANEX Summit.
Among the participants was Nnamdi Maxwell, a person with a disability, who attended masterclasses on storytelling, AI and creative development, gaining valuable knowledge and exposure to emerging technologies shaping the global creative industry.
Similarly, Mr Daniel, who is blind, participated in the Music Hub Masterclass alongside Mr Samuel, a person with a physical disability. Their participation highlighted the importance of accessible music education, collaboration and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in the creative sector.
At the policy and investment level, Mr Lawrence Idemudia, Director of Social Integration at the NCPWD and a deaf professional, alongside Mr Karo Bulus, participated in the CANEX Summit, contributing to discussions on Africa’s creative economy, investment opportunities and cultural policy.
NCPWD reiterates commitment to disability inclusion
The Commission described the participation of persons with disabilities as more than a symbolic representation, stressing that their involvement demonstrated what is possible when barriers are removed and opportunities are made accessible.
It noted that persons with disabilities are not merely spectators in Africa’s creative transformation but active creators, innovators, learners and potential industry leaders who deserve equal access to training, investment, recognition and professional development.
The Commission further explained that its involvement in CANEX WKND 2026 reflects its commitment to promoting the rights, inclusion and economic empowerment of persons with disabilities, while creating opportunities for networking and international collaboration.
The event has provided a platform for participants with disabilities to acquire new skills, showcase their abilities, build professional relationships and engage with stakeholders shaping the future of Africa’s creative economy.
Building an inclusive African creative economy
The participation of persons with disabilities at CANEX WKND 2026 sends a strong message to governments, investors, creative industry stakeholders and development partners about the need to make Africa’s creative economy accessible and inclusive.
As Africa continues to expand its influence in music, film, fashion, storytelling, technology and other creative industries, stakeholders must ensure that persons with disabilities are not excluded from the opportunities, investments and benefits emerging from the sector.
The NCPWD maintained that when accessible opportunities are provided, persons with disabilities can compete, innovate, create wealth and contribute meaningfully to national and continental development.
As Africa creates for the world, persons with disabilities must be part of the story—not as an afterthought, but as equal contributors, creators and leaders.
No one should be left behind in Africa’s creative future.
