By Eddah Waithaka
Have you ever dreamed of telling your stories on screen? A new wave of African filmmakers is taking control of their careers by launching their own production companies, and you can too.
Forget waiting for permission, the roadmap to building your own film or TV production company is clearer than ever.You don’t need a Hollywood budget to start, but you do need a strategy.
Here’s how to transform your creative vision into a legitimate business.
Master Your Craft
First, build a rock-solid foundation in the art of filmmaking. You can tap into a wealth of online tutorials or pursue formal education at a university.
For an intensive, industry-focused route, consider pan-African academies like the MultiChoice Talent Factory, which runs postgraduate programs in Nairobi, Lagos, and Lusaka.
The goal is to emerge confident in directing, production, cinematography, and, most importantly, storytelling.
Build Your Creative Tribe
Film is a team sport.Actively connect with writers, editors, cinematographers, and actors. Join online film forums, attend industry meetups, and participate in virtual discussions. These connections often spark collaborations, lead to mentorships, and open doors to your first professional projects.
Make It Official
Once you have the skills and the network,legitimize your venture. Register your company with the relevant national authorities. In Kenya, for instance, you can complete this process seamlessly via the eCitizen platform.
This critical step allows you to legally sign contracts, apply for funding, and protect your intellectual property.
Tell Stories Only You Can Tell
Audiences crave authenticity.They want to see their own realities reflected on screen. Ditch the formulas and craft fresh, relevant stories rooted in your unique perspective. Authenticity forges a powerful, lasting connection with viewers and helps your work stand out in a crowded market.
Put Your Work in the Spotlight
Visibility is currency.Submit your films to festivals and competitions like the Durban Film Mart or the Zanzibar International Film Festival to build recognition.
Even if you don’t win, attending events like the Kalasha International Film & TV Market puts you in a room with producers, directors, and financiers creating invaluable opportunities for partnerships and funding.
Pitch for Your Project’s Life
A strong concept and a clear synopsis are your keys to funding.Actively pitch your projects to national film boards, development funds, and private investors.
Keep a close watch on streaming platforms like Showmax, which often have open submission portals for new talent.
Protect Your Creative Assets
Safeguard the work you pour your heart into.Copyright laws automatically protect your scripts and films in most countries, but you can take extra steps.
In Kenya, register your copyright through the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO), use digital watermarks, or timestamp your work. Always use trusted institutions to avoid scams.
The path to running a successful film production company is no longer a mystery. By taking these steps, you can create your own opportunities, build a sustainable career doing what you love, and enrich the African cultural landscape with your unique voice.
