NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 – Kenya is poised to become one of Africa’s filming destinations following the arrival of the fibre optic cable, a tax free film status and increased competition in the local market.
Kenya Film Commission Chief Executive Officer David Maingi said the budgetary proposals will catalyse the industry and make Kenya a better film destination than Nigeria and South Africa which operates a rebate programme.
‘‘The rebate programme is laborious and tedious. Discerning producers are now finding huge benefits in coming to Kenya’’ he said adding that international producers find Kenya a natural destination.
In the 2009/2010 Budget Speech, Finance Minister Uhuru Kenyatta zero rated distribution and supply equipment as well as post production facilities. Industry players now anticipate unprecedented inflows of film investment which would in turn spur film growth in Kenya.
The CEO observed that the incentives would also open up opportunities for the sector while investors would also enjoy good returns on their investment.
The landing of The East African Marine System (TEAMS) cable is also projected to create a high demand for content development.
“There is going to be a huge demand for films, TV programme, sitcoms, reality TV, animations, music video and mobile entertainment,’’ said Mr Maingi.
He spoke ahead of the ‘Kalasha Film and TV Awards’ which seek to challenge local filmmakers to make quality film productions that can compete at the global levels.
“The awards are designed to allow Kenyans to celebrate their cultural diversity through film and also aim to recognise the role of film in economic sustainability,” he added.
The ceremony will take place on June 27 and are expected to foster competition in the two industries.
