This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
On October 23, 2019, Kenya Film Commission Chief Executive Timothy Owase emphasized the importance of local content producers embracing digital technologies to push their content.
According to Owase, the widespread adoption of smartphones has created a platform for mass content distribution, particularly for start-up filmmakers and content producers who face stiff competition from established film conglomerates.
With a population of over 1 billion, the African audience presents a significant market for Pan-African movie makers, potentially rivaling Hollywood, Bollywood, and other major film industries.
However, local content producers have cited stringent licensing and prohibitive regulations as major challenges, making filming expensive.
As part of efforts to promote local content, the Kenya Film Commission has partnered with StarTimes Kenya to provide a platform for shortlisted films to be uploaded for viewing and public voting ahead of the 9th edition of the Kalasha International Film and TV awards.
The partnership aims to create more awareness about Kenya's local content and provide a level playing field for filmmakers from all over the world through online streaming services.
