Kenya Film Commission opens Film & TV Market festival ahead of Kalasha Awards

The three-day event, running from April 28th to 30th, aims to promote industry dialogue, investment and collaboration within the creative economy, with exhibitions, conferences, workshops and networking sessions lined up for participants. 

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya, said the government is positioning the creative industry as a key pillar of economic transformation.

“The creative economy is the next frontier of economic transformation for our country,” Mvurya said, adding that the government is advancing the Creative Economy Bill, 2026, to support and regulate the sector while unlocking funding and institutional support. 

Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Fikirini Jacobs Kahindi reassured the state’s commitment to strengthening the sector through policy implementation, expansion of creative hubs and improved digital monetisation opportunities for content creators.

“The State Department is focused on strengthening the creative economy through structured support systems, expansion of regional creative hubs, and enhanced digital monetization opportunities for content creators,” said the PS. 

On his part, KFC Board Chair Sudi Wandabusi said the country must enhance its competitiveness globally by improving service delivery and attracting international productions and partnerships.

“Film is not only culture, but it is also business,” Wandabusi said.

In addition, KFC CEO Timothy Owase noted that ongoing initiatives such as the Film Empowerment Programme are aimed at supporting local filmmakers and streamlining production processes to make Kenya a preferred filming destination.

“We are committed to making Kenya a competitive and attractive filming destination by streamlining production processes, supporting local filmmakers, and strengthening international partnerships. Through our Film Empowerment Programme, we continue to nurture talent and support high-quality content creation,” said Owase. 

This year’s edition, themed “Innovating Tradition: Re-inventing Storytelling One Frame at a Time,” focuses on blending creativity with innovation to elevate African storytelling on the global stage, while fostering skills development and strategic partnerships across the industry.

The activities will culminate in the Kalasha Awards Gala scheduled for  Saturday, May 2, where outstanding achievements in film and television will be recognised.