State promises tax exemption on film products

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. [File, Standard]

The government has announced plans to issue tax exemptions for film industry products in the country.

This emerged on Saturday during the Africa’s Next Super Model talent search held in Nairobi. The premier modeling competition is committed to discovering, nurturing, and showcasing exceptional modeling talent from across the continent.

Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the move is aimed at elevating the sector that has been dwindling for years. He was represented by Timothy Owase, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kenya Film Commission.

He said the tax incentives will also attract the international investors in the film industry to set up stages locally, which will in turn create jobs for the youths. “We are in the final stages of securing tax breaks and incentives for filmmakers in Kenya. With the national treasury’s support, these incentives will reduce barriers to entry, attract local international projects, and create jobs within our borders” he said.

Murkomen further noted that the government is in advanced stages in scouting for collaborations to boost the creative industry.

“We have recent embarked on a transformative initiative designed to elevate Kenya’s creative sector to new heights. We have established partnerships with globally renowned organisations. Among these is an exciting collaboration with the Grammys providing Kenyan musicians with unprecedented access to international platforms and creating new pathways for our music industry to thrive,” he said.

The CS said said events like Africa’s Next Super Model underscores the importance of platforms that allow young creatives to gain international exposure and to horn their talents.

The Africa’s Next Super Model brought together international and local brands in fashion industry seeking to elevate Africa talents while preserving the continent’s culture and heritage.  

Among the local designers whose products were showcased at the premier event was Daima Mkenya Africa fashion brand, which creates opportunities for young people and women across the country. Daima Mkenya Africa is unique in creating fabrics in colours that symbolise Kenya’s traditional cultural expressions. The brand, founded by Zahra Bahlewa Moi, is already impacting lives positively in 11 countries across Kenya. Her vision was inspired by the scarcity of authentic clothing fabrics in colours that represent Kenya’s national flag. The brand stands as more than just a brand – it’s a call to action and a movement for all Kenyans to support their own.