Kenya signs agreement with France to boost film industry

French Ambassador to Kenya Rémi Maréchaux and the Sports, Culture and the Arts Cabinet Secretary Dr Hasssan Wario sign a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the French government support the Kalasha International Film and TV Awards for the second year running. Looking on is Kenya Film Commission CEO Lizzie Chongoti and Culture P.S Joe Okudo. PHOTO GEORGE ORIDO

The Government has signed a memorandum of understanding with France to grow the Kenyan film industry.

In the deal signed yesterday, the French government will fund the annual Kalasha International Film and Television Awards for the second year running.

"We are happy to have this agreement and it's a good sign that we are on the right path," said Sports, Culture and the Arts Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario. "But we must tell our own stories and players must take advantage of the growing demand for local content," he told industry players.

Part of the agreement is to have a content management exhibition for East Africa. This year more than 100 French exhibitors will be in attendance. "There is growing need for Africans and Kenyans in France and this year some of them will be here," said French Ambassador to Kenya Rémi Maréchaux.

Mr Wario said his ministry is working closely with the Kenya Revenue Authority and the Directorate of Civil Aviation to allow filmmakers use drones for filming. "We are looking into ways to balance the need to secure the country and the freedom to use these gadgets," he said.

Kenya Film Commission Chief Executive Officer Lizzie Chongoti said the event would also attract participants from Brazil and Asia.