President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged filmmakers and producers attending the 72nd edition of the Cannes International Film Festival in France to invest in Kenya.
President Kenyatta told the filmmakers and producers to tap into Kenya’s enormous filming opportunities.
The Head of State said that Kenya is blessed with flora, fauna and breathtaking landscape that are easily alluring to any film producer and director.
In a brief clip played at the International Festival’s ‘African Pavilion’, President Kenyatta excited the audience when he signed off with the punchy lines ‘Roll Sound…..Roll camera……and Action!
The audience at Pavilion where Kenya was presenting applauded President Kenyatta’s signing off and his message to filmmakers.
During the session, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Ezekiel Mutua who is leading Kenya’s delegation at the festival reinforced President Kenyatta’s message to the international filmmakers.
Dr Mutua told the filmmakers and delegates that it only takes 15 minutes to get a license for filming in Kenya.
He further explained to the audience the role of KFCB in creating a facilitating environment for ease of doing business through efficient and effective regulation, including timely issuance of film permits.
Mutua added that Africa has the resources to make great films, co-production and therefore is key to opening up borders and seeing the continent as a large market.
The Cannes festival that started on May 14 runs to May 26 and will see seven Kenyan films premiere at the global event.
The festival was founded in 1946 and is one of the global ‘Big Three’ international film events. The other two are the Berlin International Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.