Film Equipments Used in Shooting of Movies in Kenya
February 5, 2022Photography, Video Production & Editing Schools/Colleges Courses in Nairobi, Kenya
February 5, 2022Overcoming Challenges in Kenya’s Film Industry: How Janeson Films is Leading the Way
The Kenyan film industry holds immense potential, but its growth has been stunted by several challenges that have kept it from reaching the heights it deserves. While Kenya is rich in talent and creativity, the sector faces numerous obstacles, including lack of skills, inadequate resources, poor funding, limited support, and a lack of exposure. Despite these challenges, there is hope for growth, and with the right approach, the Kenyan film industry can rise above expectations.
At Janeson Films, we understand the hurdles facing the industry and are committed to supporting the growth of film production in Kenya. Through education, innovation, and strategic partnerships, we aim to foster the development of a thriving film ecosystem. In this article, we will explore the main challenges in Kenya’s film industry and how the sector can be propelled forward.
1. Lack of Proper Skills and Training
One of the biggest challenges in the Kenyan film industry is the lack of adequately trained professionals. Many young people are drawn to film production due to their passion for the art, but few understand that skills and formal training are essential for success in this field.
Film production involves much more than just taking photos or recording videos. It’s a technical art that requires knowledge of cinematography, lighting, sound design, editing, and storytelling. Without the right skills, it’s difficult to create content that competes on an international level.
The good news is that Kenya has a growing number of institutions that offer courses in film and media studies. Schools such as the Kenya Film School and other institutions provide a strong foundation in film education, equipping students with the practical skills needed to succeed in the industry. It’s crucial for aspiring filmmakers to pursue formal education to gain the technical expertise necessary to create high-quality content.
At Janeson Films, we believe in continuous learning. Whether through hands-on training, internships, or workshops, we are dedicated to nurturing talent and empowering the next generation of Kenyan filmmakers.
2. Lack of Access to Quality Filming Equipment
High-quality filming equipment is essential for producing world-class films, but access to these tools is limited in Kenya. Many filmmakers and production houses in Kenya rely on cheaper, lower-quality equipment, which limits their ability to produce content that meets international standards. While there is a growing market for film equipment rentals, the high costs of purchasing professional-grade gear can be a deterrent for many aspiring filmmakers.
Many Kenyan filmmakers, especially those in the early stages of their careers, face the challenge of working with limited resources. This lack of access to state-of-the-art equipment means that many projects are not able to reach their full potential in terms of visual and audio quality.
At Janeson Films, we offer a comprehensive range of film equipment rentals, including cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and editing tools. By providing access to top-tier equipment, we help filmmakers produce high-quality content without the burden of expensive upfront costs. Our goal is to ensure that Kenyan filmmakers have the resources they need to bring their creative visions to life.
3. Challenges in Funding and Financial Support
Funding is one of the biggest barriers to the growth of Kenya’s film industry. While there are government initiatives like the Pesa Kwa Vijana program, which aims to support creative industries, the allocation and management of these funds often fall short. In many cases, the money intended for the growth of the film industry is mismanaged or fails to reach the filmmakers who need it most.
Many filmmakers also struggle to secure funding for their projects, particularly independent filmmakers who lack the backing of large production companies or sponsors. As a result, many promising projects are left unfinished, and many filmmakers are unable to break into the industry.
At Janeson Films, we are committed to supporting filmmakers by offering affordable services, funding advice, and access to potential investors. We understand that financial resources are a critical part of the filmmaking process, and we aim to connect talented filmmakers with the financial support they need to bring their projects to fruition.
4. Limited Support from Government and Industry Stakeholders
The film industry in Kenya has yet to receive the level of support it needs from both the government and industry stakeholders. While there are initiatives aimed at supporting the arts, the lack of consistent and structured support has hindered the growth of the film sector.
For Kenya’s film industry to thrive, there needs to be more collaboration between government agencies, film organizations, and the private sector. Policies that incentivize local film production, provide tax breaks for filmmakers, and foster partnerships with international production companies would help raise the profile of Kenyan cinema on the global stage.
At Janeson Films, we advocate for increased support for the film industry. We believe that collaboration between all parties—filmmakers, government bodies, and investors—is essential for creating a sustainable and thriving film sector in Kenya. By working together, we can create an environment that nurtures creativity and supports the growth of the industry.
5. Lack of Exposure to International Markets
Despite the growing talent and creativity in Kenya’s film industry, many filmmakers struggle to gain exposure outside of the country. While there have been some breakthroughs, such as the success of the Nairobi Film Festival and the recognition of Kenyan films at international festivals, the industry as a whole still lacks consistent international exposure.
Exposure is essential for filmmakers to gain recognition, attract investors, and build a global fanbase. However, the lack of international distribution channels and limited access to global film markets make it difficult for Kenyan films to compete on the world stage.
At Janeson Films, we are committed to increasing the exposure of Kenyan films by helping filmmakers connect with international distributors and attending global film festivals. Our platform provides filmmakers with the opportunity to showcase their work to a broader audience, expanding their reach and helping them gain the recognition they deserve.
6. The Power of Collaboration and Networking
Networking and collaboration are key factors in the success of any industry, and the film sector is no exception. Unfortunately, many Kenyan filmmakers are still working in isolation, without access to a strong professional network. This lack of collaboration prevents the exchange of ideas, resources, and opportunities that could elevate the industry.
By building a network of professionals, including producers, directors, writers, editors, and sound engineers, filmmakers can share knowledge and support one another. Collaborations with international filmmakers and production companies can also open doors for Kenyan films to gain international recognition.
At Janeson Films, we believe in the power of collaboration. We actively work to create a community of filmmakers who can share ideas, resources, and opportunities. Through networking events, film screenings, and partnerships, we aim to build a robust ecosystem that supports the growth of Kenyan cinema.
Conclusion: The Future of Kenyan Film
The Kenyan film industry has the potential to become a global force in filmmaking. While there are challenges that need to be addressed, such as the lack of skills, inadequate resources, poor funding, limited support, and a lack of exposure, there are also significant opportunities for growth. By investing in education, promoting collaboration, providing access to resources, and increasing exposure, the industry can rise above these obstacles.
At Janeson Films, we are dedicated to playing a key role in this transformation. Our commitment to quality production, film education, and community building is helping shape the future of Kenyan cinema. By nurturing talent and empowering filmmakers, we are helping to create a thriving film industry that will inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
If you’re a filmmaker or a film enthusiast, consider partnering with Janeson Films to take your project to the next level. Together, we can overcome the challenges and unlock the full potential of Kenya’s film industry.