The Commission successfully hosted the Kalasha Stakeholders’ Breakfast Meeting at Maanzoni 680 Hotel on 28th January 2025. The event brought together representatives from government agencies, diplomatic missions, multinational and development agencies, industry leaders, media, distributors, development partners and creatives.
During the meeting, the Commission officially unveiled the dates for the upcoming Kalasha International Film & TV Market, Festival and Awards 2026, which will take place from 28th April to 2nd May 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
The high-level engagement provided a platform for policy reflection, market positioning, and stakeholder collaboration, all of which reaffirm Kalasha’s role as a flagship convening platform for the business of film, partnerships and industry growth.
Speaking on behalf of the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Principal Secretary Mr. George Mbogo emphasized the Government’s focus on translating policy commitments into practical outcomes that directly benefit industry players.
He noted that the creative industry is a critical pathway for sustainable livelihoods and economic growth and acknowledged the efforts being undertaken towards skills development and youth employment.
In his remarks, Mr. Timothy Owase, Kenya Film Commission CEO, underscored the Commission’s mandate to drive film industry market development, with a strong focus on expanding distribution opportunities both regionally and internationally. He also noted that Kalasha has evolved beyond a celebratory platform into a strategic market intervention designed to connect Kenyan creatives with buyers, investors, broadcasters and global partners.
Mr. Owase reiterated that market access, distribution and strategic partnerships remain central to the Commission’s agenda. “We must ensure that our stories are not only told, but seen, monetized and sustained,” he said.
The CEO further highlighted the Commission’s focus on practical industry support, policy alignment, and partnerships that strengthen the creative economy as a key pillar of national development.
From an industry governance perspective, the Commission Board Chairperson, Mr. Sudi Wandabusi, pointed out the alignment of Kalasha’s objectives with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. He also noted that this edition of Kalasha will deliberately focus on strengthening creative MSMEs across the value chain and supporting creatives to move from informal practice to sustainable business, a bottom-up approach.
He further highlighted the need for accountability, responsible collaboration, and sustained market development as critical pillars for long-term sector growth. Kalasha remains a vital interface for networking, trade, partnerships and long-term sector growth. It plays a critical role in building the distribution channels and professional networks the industry needs to thrive.
Kalasha 2026 is expected to further strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional and international hub for film business, content exchange and creative collaboration, while advancing the growth of the creative economy as a key pillar of national development.
