Here’s how the COVID-19 lock-downs have impacted Africa’s movie industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant challenges to the film industry globally, and Africa is no exception. The lockdowns and restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus have heavily impacted cinemas and big screens, leading to a decline in moviegoers and box office hits. However, amidst these challenges, there are opportunities emerging for filmmakers to explore alternative distribution channels and reach wider audiences. Film director Kenji Gathega, known for the Kenyan accredited movie 'The Whistleblower,' shed light on the evolving landscape of African cinema in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Gathega highlighted how the pandemic had hindered the momentum that Kenyan films were gaining, with more people showing interest in supporting local productions by visiting cinemas. The closure of these entertainment venues forced filmmakers to rethink their strategies and turn to digital platforms for distributing their work. In the case of 'The Whistleblower,' Gathega explained that the decision to debut the movie digitally was driven by the desire to make it easily accessible to viewers. One of the key distribution platforms for the movie is Vumi Central, chosen for its favorable terms and revenue-sharing agreement. Gathega emphasized the importance of selecting the right partners to ensure the success of the film in the digital space. While established players like Netflix and Hulu have been expanding their presence in the African market with African-themed content, Gathega welcomed the competition and emphasized the need for quality control standards to attract viewers to local and regional platforms. 'The Whistleblower' stands out as the first action film produced locally in Kenya to be available digitally. Gathega shared that his passion for action movies, coupled with a desire to showcase high-quality African content, inspired the creation of the movie. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the film's release has been met with enthusiasm, although Gathega preferred to focus on the creative process rather than the immediate viewership numbers. Looking ahead, Gathega expressed optimism about the future of African cinema, highlighting the importance of innovation, collaboration, and adapting to the changing landscape of the industry. While uncertainties remain amidst the ongoing pandemic, filmmakers like Gathega are determined to overcome challenges and continue telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences across the continent.