Gov’t in plans to establish film fund as Kenya marks 12th edition of Kalasha Awards

According to Namwamba, his ministry will focus on promoting local films and also initiating co-production agreements between countries such as South Africa, Israel, France, China and Nigeria.

Speaking during the 2022 Kalasha Awards ceremony on Saturday, the CS said government is in plans to enrich the creative industry by creating a film fund.

“The new regime has made its commitment to push Parliament to pass the Creative Economy Bill that will enable the establishment of a film fund which will, in turn, facilitate the access to modern equipment and entire film production infrastructure available for local film makers on a hire and lease basis,” Namwamba said.

Additionally, the Sports and Culture CS said the Inter–County Licensing rules are being reviewed with a view to developing a single permit.

This, he said, will lessen the burden for local film makers who have in the past cried foul over numerous licenses and permits required to film.

Officiating the Kalasha gala event, the Kenya Film Commission (KFC) Chief Executive Officer Timothy Owase expressed confidence that Kenya’s film industry is on track to getting global recognition.

Owase said this was as a result of the vibrancy and commitment shown by content creators and industry players.  

He further said KFC has invested heavily in technology through its E-Film shop, and has also formed strategic partnerships geared towards promotion and growth of the sector.  

“KFC’s Film Empowerment Programme provides film and video-related funding in the broad categories of Development Funding (of feature films, documentaries and TV concepts); Production Funding (of feature films and documentaries), Marketing and distribution Funding, Emerging filmmakers Funding,” Owase said.

The 12th Edition of the Kalasha Awards saw local creatives including actors, actresses, directors, producers, sound engineers, scriptwriters, animators, lighting technicians and other players in the film industry being feted.