Kenya and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the film industry through artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies and creative partnerships aimed at boosting innovation, skills transfer and cultural exchange.
The renewed collaboration was announced during the launch of The Bond Season Six in Nairobi, a showcase of premium Chinese film and television productions by China Media Group (CMG) Africa designed to deepen cultural ties and strengthen people-to-people relations between the two countries.
AI to transform film production
Speaking during the launch, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said China is ready to work with Kenya in leveraging artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to transform film production and unlock new opportunities for the creative economy.
“China is ready to work with Kenya in adopting artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to support innovation, improve film production and unlock new opportunities for our creative industries,” Guo said.
She described film and television as powerful tools for promoting cultural understanding and bringing people from different backgrounds together.
“The Bond Season Six is more than a film showcase. It is a bridge connecting the hearts and minds of the people of Kenya and China. Through these stories, Kenyan audiences will experience a China defined by warmth, resilience and vitality,” she said.
Guo also expressed optimism that the partnership would become a two-way cultural exchange, with more Kenyan films finding audiences in China.
“We look forward to seeing more Kenyan films and television productions screened in China as we continue strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between our two countries,” she added.
Kenya eyes co-productions with China
Kenya Film Commission Chief Executive Officer Timothy Owase said the country is keen to expand collaboration with China through film co-productions and strategic partnerships that will benefit local creatives.
“Kenya is ready to work with China in co-producing films and developing partnerships that will create more opportunities for filmmakers from both countries,” Owase said.
He noted that stronger cooperation would encourage knowledge transfer, technological innovation and the production of globally competitive content.
“By sharing expertise and embracing partnerships, we can improve production standards, strengthen our film industries and create content capable of competing in regional and international markets,” he added.
Government backs responsible content
Kenya Film Classification Board Chief Executive Officer Nelly Muruka reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring audiences access responsible and age-appropriate content.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that audiences, particularly young people, consume content that is appropriate, responsible and aligned with the country’s values,” Muruka said.
She confirmed that The Bond Season Six had successfully undergone the board’s classification process and received a 16-year age rating.
“The production has completed the classification process and has been approved for audiences aged 16 years and above,” she said.
Creative sector investment
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino said Kenya remains committed to creating an enabling environment for international investors while positioning the country as a leading destination for creative investment.
“The government is committed to creating a favourable environment for international investors and supporting partnerships that contribute to economic growth, job creation and the expansion of Kenya’s creative economy,” Owino said.
He noted that increased investment in film production would generate employment, nurture local talent and strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional production hub.
“We welcome international investors who are ready to work with Kenyan creatives, transfer skills and contribute to the growth of our film and creative sectors,” he added.
The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, filmmakers and media executives, including Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation Managing Director Agnes Kalekye, China Media Group Regional Bureau Director Song Dailing, and other stakeholders from Kenya’s creative industry.
