On-the-Ground Observations from Cape Town, Lagos, Kigali, and Nairobi: What Is a Film Industry in the African Context?

I landed in Nairobi, Kenya a few hours ago, after a 90-minute flight from Kigali, Rwanda, where I spent all last week primarily participating in the Some Fine Day Pix / GIZ Moving Pictures film distribution initiative.

I will be in Nairobi for the rest of the month, marking my fourth major African city visit since September, after week-long stays in Cape Town (South Africa), Lagos (Nigeria), and Kigali.

These journeys allow me to gather first-hand insights into a few key African screen markets, even if limited, that mostly, so far, align with broader data I’ve discussed about the varying capabilities and challenges each city faces in developing sustainable industries.

It’s far too early to draw conclusions about Kenya’s capital, and I’m still ruminating over my time in Kigali. However, last week, Akoroko Premium subscribers received my hot takes from these initial visits (Cape Town, Lagos, Kigali), acknowledging my brass-tacks, unsentimental approach.

Subscribers will continue to receive my insights into each city, including a few special focus coverage subjects (people, places, initiatives) that I think deserve more awareness.

To receive last week’s starter piece, as well as upcoming profiles, analyses, interviews, etc, subscribe at the link in the bio or copy/paste: https://akoroko.com/subscribe/