The Business of Film – Kenya

A comprehensive, industry-grounded programme covering the full spectrum of film
production, financing, distribution, marketing, and law in Nollywood (Nigeria) and
Riverwood (Kenya).

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This four-week programme equips participants with both the theoretical insights and practical skills needed to understand and navigate the film business in Nigeria and Kenya. From the mechanics of production to the business of getting films seen and monetised, participants develop a complete picture of how Nollywood and Riverwood operate, and how to build a sustainable career or venture within them.

The course covers film production fundamentals, financing strategies, distribution channels, marketing campaigns, and the legal frameworks governing film in both countries. Gender-equitable storytelling and inclusive industry practices are woven throughout every module, equipping participants to shape a more representative screen culture.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• The history, evolution, and current global landscape of film, from Nollywood’s origins to Riverwood’s rise
• The three stages of film production (pre-production, production, post-production) and how they work in the Nigerian and Kenyan context
• Key roles in a film production; producers, directors, cinematographers, editors, script writers and what each involves
• How films are financed through studio deals, investor funding, government grants, crowdfunding, brand sponsorships, and product placement
• Revenue models for Nigerian and Kenyan films: box office, TV rights, streaming platforms, DVD sales, licensing, and distribution deals
• How to develop and read a film budget for a Nollywood or Riverwood production
• Film distribution channels; cinemas, TV networks, digital platforms (Netflix, Showmax, YouTube) and how to navigate them
• How to design a marketing campaign for a Nigerian or Kenyan film, including social media, influencer partnerships, and PR strategy
• Copyright and intellectual property law as it applies to film content in Nigeria and Kenya
• How to draft and review film contracts: production agreements, talent contracts, distribution deals
• Tax incentives, funding opportunities, and legal considerations when working with film investors
• Gender-equitable storytelling, inclusive representation, and how to audit scripts and productions for fairness

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1.  Explain the structure and history of the Nigerian and Kenyan film industries, and identify the key players, institutions, and production roles within each.

2.  Plan and document a film production process from ideation through pre-production, production, and post-production including budgeting, scheduling, and crew assignment.

3.  Evaluate and compare film financing models, and develop a simplified financing plan for a small-scale Nigerian or Kenyan film project.

4.  Design a distribution and marketing strategy for a film, selecting appropriate channels and platforms for a Nigerian or Kenyan audience and beyond.

5.  Demonstrate understanding of copyright, IP law, and contractual frameworks applicable to film production in Nigeria and Kenya.

6.  Draft basic film contract including production agreements, talent contracts, and distribution deals suited to the Nigerian and Kenyan regulatory environment.

7.  Apply gender-equity principles to script development, casting, production design, and marketing, using practical tools like the Gender-Equity Story Elements Checklist.

8.  Present a comprehensive business plan for a Nigerian or Kenyan film project, covering production, financing, distribution, and legal considerations.