Local filmmakers licence fees reduced

Local filmmakers and other industry players will soon pay lower regulatory fees if stakeholders adopt a government proposal to reduce the licence charges applicable in the film sector.

In the revised regulations published for public consultation on March 28, the Youth Affairs, Arts and Sports Ministry proposes a 15 per cent reduction in filming fees for local filmmakers. The licence fees for foreign filmmakers will remain unchanged.

In an apparent move to encourage broadcasters and cinema theatres to air and screen local film content, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) will charge local companies lower fees for the examination and classification of film content.

Other proposals in the draft regulations include imposing lower classification fees on cinema operators, video shops, and dens with more screens.

“This proposal is meant to encourage additional investment in the film exhibition sector and thus provide opportunities for local filmmakers to monetise their talent and content in line with the wider government’s policy of putting money in the pockets of artists,” read a statement from KFCB.

Kenya has a total of 39 cinema screens located mainly in the main cities. In the same vein, local Video on Demand (VoD) and other commercial online streaming platforms will enjoy lower film distribution licence fees.