The 4th Kenya International Film Festival is currently underway in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi with the event drawing participants from across the world.
Launching the ten-day event at the National Museum of Kenya on Wednesday night, Kenyan Vice-President, Kalonzo Musyoka said though the sector has the potential to generate over 40 billion shillings ($532 million) and create over 250,000 jobs annually, only 10 billion shillings ($133 million) is being realized with job opportunities for only 15,000 people.
“The government has already demonstrated its commitment by subsidizing and zero-rating filming equipment, believing that it will help promote the industry and increase income opportunities for local film makers.
We welcome filmmakers and other stakeholders to take advantage of this and meet the government half-way,”Musyoka said.
The event that will see hundreds of films be screened in various theaters in the capital during the festival saw the screening of a breathtaking locally produced 25-minute sci-fi film on the environment, “Pumzi” produced by a renowned local filmmaker, Wanuri Kahiu.
This time round, the festival has attracted 300 films with Kenya entering 34 films.
Over-emphasis on foreign films in local theaters and television, Musyoka noted, was undermining the country’s efforts to conserve and promote a national conscience.
Source African Press Agency
