Kenya’s journey to the 99th Academy Awards has taken shape with the selection of One Woman, One Bra as the country’s official submission in the International Feature Film category.
The film, which draws its story and cultural setting from the Maasai community, was selected by the 99th Kenya Oscars Selection Committee following a review of three films submitted for consideration.
The selection process assessed the eligible films against the Academy’s requirements, including technical eligibility and the requirement for more than 50 per cent local-language content. Beyond the eligibility criteria, the Committee considered the films’ storytelling, originality, performances, visual treatment, sound, costumes, pacing and the authenticity of their representation of the Kenyan experience.
According to the Committee, One Woman, One Bra stood out for the way it brings together an original story and an authentic portrayal of Maasai life.
The Committee noted the film’s performances for their natural and convincing quality, while its pacing and rhythm were recognized for effectively carrying the story. The Kenyan landscape also plays a significant role in the film, with its visual treatment contributing to the overall storytelling.
Sound forms another distinctive element of the production. The incorporation of environmental sounds, including cows and cowbells, contributes to the film’s sense of place and immerses audiences in the world of the story. The Committee also recognized the film’s costumes for their reflection of Maasai cultural heritage and the relevance of its individual scenes in advancing the narrative.
Commenting on the selection, Eddah Kiruhi, Chairperson of the 99th Kenya Oscars Selection Committee, said the film represents the value of authentic and culturally grounded storytelling.
“One Woman, One Bra is a film rooted in an authentic Kenyan story and cultural experience. Its originality, performances, visual and sonic treatment, and purposeful storytelling were among the elements that distinguished it during the selection process.”
The selection marks another opportunity for Kenyan filmmakers and stories to gain visibility on one of the world’s most prominent film platforms. It also highlights the diversity of stories emerging from Kenya’s screen sector and the role of local voices in shaping the country’s cinematic identity.
The Kenya Oscars Selection Committee expressed appreciation to all producers who submitted films for consideration, noting that their participation contributes to the continued development and visibility of Kenya’s film industry.
With One Woman, One Bra now selected as Kenya’s official submission, the film proceeds to the next stage of the Academy Awards process. The Academy will subsequently determine the films that advance in the International Feature Film category.
About the Kenya Oscars Selection Committee
The Kenya Oscars Selection Committee is constituted in accordance with Academy regulations to consider and select Kenya’s annual submission for the International Feature Film category of the Academy Awards.
The Committee operates independently, with the Commission providing secretariat support.
Members of the 99th Kenya Oscars Selection Committee
- Eddah Kiruhi – Chairperson, Kenya Film and Television Professionals Association (KFTPA)
- Lydiah Gitachu – Kenya Actors Guild
- Linda Karuru – Producers Guild of Kenya
- Elly Gitau – East African Journalists in Arts and Culture (EAJAC) Association
- Cosmas Bii – Eldoret Film Festival
- Elias Nabutete – Kenya Scriptwriters Guild
- Joy Nduto – Distributors Guild of Kenya
- Mwaniki Njache – Kenya Film and Television Professionals Association (KFTPA)
- Joseph Mbuchi – Jambowood Film Producers Association
