Kenya targets global film hub status at Kalasha 2026

CELESTINE LOMOLIJAH-KNA

Kenya has set its ambit i o n to become a leading global hub for film production, with industry leaders and government officials convening at the Kalasha International Film and TV Market Festival and Awards 2026 in Nairobi.

Speaking during the official opening of the event, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya expressed that the Kalasha Festival has grown into a key platform for showcasing African storytelling, fostering industry dialogue, and connecting Kenyan filmmakers with international markets.

Mvurya said that this year’s edition has attracted participants from across Africa and beyond, signaling increasing global interest in Kenya’s creative sector.

The CS stated that the festival will continue to play a critical role in strengthening the film ecosystem by promoting inclusivity, supporting emerging voices, and facilitating access to financing and distribution channels. 

Mvurya expressed optimism that continued collaboration and investment will unlock the full potential of Kenya’s film industry and cement its position on the global stage.

Kenya Film Commission (KFC) Chief Executive Officer Timothy Owase said the country is committed to strengthening its creative economy through policy support, partnerships, and investment in local talent.

“Kenya is not just a destination; it is a story worth telling,” Owase said, urging both local and international stakeholders to tap into the country’s rich cultural diversity and storytelling potential.

He noted that the Commission continues to champion local content while expanding opportunities for Kenyan creatives through funding, capacity-building programmes, and international collaborations.

According to Owase, these efforts have already enabled hundreds of creatives to access regional and global platforms.

Owase emphasized that film is not merely entertainment but a powerful economic driver.