The Kenya Film Commission (KFC), in collaboration with Konza Technopolis and Design Factory, hosted a groundbreaking training workshop from 4th – 5th March 2025 at the Konza Technopolis to equip 100 filmmakers, 2D animators, and 3D animators with advanced skills in Virtual Production, including Virtual Studios, Extended Reality (XR), and Augmented Reality (AR). Following the workshop, 12 outstanding trainees were selected for a 3-month intensive program, gaining hands-on experience in real-world virtual production.
This initiative introduces Kenyan creatives to cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of storytelling. With rising global demand for high-quality digital content, skills in XR and AR position Kenya at the forefront of cinematic innovation. Virtual production at Konza blended artistry and technology, utilizing real-time rendering and LED volumes to create immersive environments while reducing production costs and time.
John Paul Okwiri, CEO of Konza Technopolis, emphasized that virtual production is revolutionizing the creative economy, making it crucial for Kenyan filmmakers to adopt these technologies . Award-winning filmmaker Andrew Kaggia highlighted how accessible tools are empowering small teams and independent creators to produce high-quality content for TV, film, and advertising.
This strategic upskilling effort could establish Kenya as a hub for immersive content production, attracting both local and international projects. While challenges like high initial costs and industry awareness remain, continued support from the government, private sector, and film institutions will drive adoption.
Aligned with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), this initiative enhances digital skills and local content production, positioning Kenya as a competitive hub for film and media innovation. KFC remains committed to fostering talent, promoting innovation, and ensuring filmmakers have the resources to embrace virtual production.
The future of Kenyan filmmaking is here. Virtual production at Konza is setting the stage for a new wave of storytelling, empowering creatives with world-class tools. With the right investment and collaboration, Kenya can cement its place as a global leader in digital content creation.
