This archive report was first published on 16 November 2019.
On November 14, 2019, Victor Muniafu, Machakos County's Tourism and Culture Chief Officer and Machawood Chief Executive Officer, met with Nigerian filmmaker Gbenga Obadina in Lagos, Nigeria, to discuss a partnership between Machawood and Envivo.
According to Mr. Muniafu, Envivo will send top actors and actresses to train young filmmakers in scriptwriting, directing, and cinematography.
The partnership aims to boost the local film industry, and Envivo has promised to provide monetary support to Machawood.
Ms. Nelly Muluka, Communications Manager at the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), announced the partnership on November 15, 2019, stating that it was the first step in growing the industry.
Ms. Muluka also mentioned that the board was in talks with Hollywood filmmakers to further support the local industry.
At the Machakos People's Park, Mr. Muniafu noted that the quality of films submitted to Machakosfest had improved, with 83 films submitted, up from 50 last year.
However, some participants complained about the lack of local representation in the competition, with most nominees coming from Nairobi and other parts of the country.
Mr. Muniafu responded by stating that Machakosfest is a national competition, and the rules cannot be changed to favor Machakos residents.
The winning films will be announced at a gala on December 14, 2019, with the winner taking home a Sh1 million award.
