From Capital FM

The Kenya film industry earns Sh200 billion annually, an increase by 140 billion from 2007, according to a study commissioned by the Kenya Film Commission.

Ezekiel Mutua, CEO Kenya Film Classification Board, said the steady pace of growth can be attributed to increase in technological innovation in the local scene.

This has in return created thousands of new jobs.

Mutua noted that Internet usage stands at an impressive 54pc with mobile usage at 80pc, positively impacting the economy and particularly the film industry.

“This development is spurred largely by advances in technology as well as increased levels of investment by both local and foreign investors,” said Mutua.

“Kenya has a thriving film industry that has gathered a renewed pace of growth across the continent,” he added.

Speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Films and Publication Board of South Africa, Mutua said: “Despite the exponential growth, challenges that come with technologies need to be addressed especially the lack of regulation of online content.”

A case in point is the recent introduction of online television streaming services Netflix which has gained mixed reactions.

“The biggest issue we have with Netflix is on programme ratings.”

“What’s rated 16 in the USA is not fit to be watched by a 16 year old here in Kenya,” said Mutua.

The major challenge is that the country lacks a regulatory framework to highlight on such issues especially those to do with online content.

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