The Zanzibar International Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in Africa, took place from August 1st to 4th. This year’s edition featured a diverse selection of films from across the globe, showcasing the rich tapestry of storytelling that defines our industry. The festival also included workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, providing a platform for filmmakers, producers, and distributors to connect and collaborate. Highlights included the screening of groundbreaking African films and the recognition of outstanding talents in various categories.

The Creative Economy Forum, hosted at the US residence, was a significant gathering that brought together key stakeholders from the creative industries. The forum provided a platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the creative economy in Africa. Topics included access to funding, capacity building, and fostering public-private partnerships. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions with policymakers, investors, and creatives, exploring innovative solutions to drive growth in the sector.

Held on August 16th, the Safaricom BAZE Content Aggregators Forum focused on the growing opportunities for digital content distribution in Kenya. The forum highlighted Safaricom's BAZE platform, which aggregates local content, making it accessible to a broader audience. Discussions centered around monetization strategies for content creators, the importance of local content in driving digital consumption, and the role of technology in shaping the future of the creative industry. The event provided valuable insights into the evolving digital landscape and the potential for creators to reach new audiences.

On August 20th, a delegation of creative industry leaders, accompanied by representatives from the US, visited the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen. The discussions centered on the importance of government support in promoting the creative economy and the need for policies that foster innovation and growth. Key outcomes of the meeting included commitments to enhance collaboration between the government and creative sector stakeholders, and explore new avenues for funding and infrastructure development.

We are pleased to share that our CEO, Wangeci Mūrage, recently visited Mwenda Njoka, CEO of Cape Media. Cape Media is renowned for its rapidly growing media platforms, including TV47 and Radio 47, as well as its recent partnership with Radio Africa's The Star.

This visit highlighted our dedication to advancing the Creative Economy sector. By fostering collaboration in content production and distribution, both locally and internationally, we are committed to driving growth, sustainability, and profitability. Our goal is to amplify African stories and ensure they reach global audiences, thereby expanding opportunities and enhancing the impact of our creative endeavors.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build strategic partnerships and explore new avenues for content excellence.

The Swahili Content Distribution Forum, scheduled for September 13th, 2024, at the Alliance Française in Mombasa, aims to bring together stakeholders involved in the creation, production, and distribution of Swahili content. Building on the success of the Sinema Mtaani initiative, where more than 20 films were screened to local audiences in Mombasa, the forum will provide a platform for discussions on enhancing the visibility and marketability of Swahili content, both regionally and internationally. Participants will explore new distribution channels, innovative marketing strategies, and potential partnerships to promote Swahili-language content.

As part of the event, a pitching masterclass will be conducted to equip content producers with the skills needed to effectively sell their ideas and fundraise for their projects. "We are excited to collaborate with Media Pros Africa to support and empower content creators through this initiative," says Lucas Malcor, Director of Alliance Française. "This partnership will open new doors for Swahili content producers to reach wider audiences."

Wangeci Mūrage, CEO of Media Pros Africa, adds, "Our goal is to provide a platform for content creators to showcase their work and gain insights into the best practices for pitching and distribution. We are thrilled to work alongside Alliance Française to promote Swahili content and help producers achieve international recognition."

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On September 20th, FilmAid Kenya will host its annual Film Festival Gala Event. The event celebrates the power of film as a tool for social change, with a focus on films that highlight critical social issues such as human rights, gender equality, and environmental sustainability. The gala will feature screenings of selected films, panel discussions with filmmakers and activists, and networking opportunities for attendees. It is a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders and changemakers who are using storytelling to drive social impact.

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The African-European Distribution Academy (AEDA), running from September 25th to November 3rd, is a collaborative initiative by Neue Visionen and GIZ Kenya. This academy is designed to build capacity among African and European professionals in film distribution, fostering cross-continental collaboration and exchange of best practices.The program will include workshops, masterclasses, and networking events, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the distribution landscape and equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the global market.

In attendance will be Wangeci Mūrage, the CEO of Media Pros Africa, who brings a wealth of experience in international film distribution. Her participation underscores the importance of building robust networks and sharing knowledge across borders to enhance the visibility of African content on the global stage.

This month, we are proud to feature FilmAid Kenyaas our Industry Blazer. Founded with the mission to empower marginalized communities through storytelling, FilmAid Kenya has been at the forefront of using film to educate, inform, and inspire. The organisation has been particularly active in refugee camps and under-served areas, providing training in filmmaking and media production, and offering a platform for communities to share their stories.

FilmAid Kenya's work is not just about entertainment; it's about using the power of film to drive social change. From raising awareness about health issues and human rights to promoting peace and conflict resolution, FilmAid Kenya's initiatives have had a profound impact on the communities they serve. Their commitment to harnessing the power of storytelling to create positive change makes them a true leader in the creative industry.

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