SARAH HASSAN, PIERRA MAKENA AND SANAIPEI TANDE AMONG NOMINEES FOR KALASHA INTERNATIONAL FILM AND TV AWARDS

The Kenya Film Commission (KFC)has unveiled the nominees in various categories for the 11th edition of the Kalasha International Film and TV awards during a press conference hosted at the Sarova Stanley hotel. Speaking at the unveil ceremony, the Chairperson of the Kalasha Awards nomination committee, Valentine Zikki noted that this year 706 entries were received, and through a rigorous vetting process by the committee a shortlist of five (5) nominees per category was done. 

“The vetting process this year was as thorough as in the other previous years. With the help of our 7-member Jury academy drawn, all drawn from the film industry, we were able to narrow down to a total of 145 nominees. The Jury Members were Valentine Zikki (Kenya Actors Guild),Moses Wamalwa (Kenya Scriptwriters Guild),Emmah Kibunja (Jambowood),Earnest Livasia (Association of Animation Artists in Kenya),Simiyu Barasa (Riverwood Ensemble), Leo Mutisya( Media Council of Kenya) and Sheila Murumba (Communication Authority of Kenya)”said Ms Zikki.

Neflix movie Just In Time, action film Mission To Rescue and Kutu were top nominated productions this year. Battling for Best Lead Actress in a film is Sarah Hassan, Davila, Kanini Edith, Tabitha Wambui and Wakio Nzenge. While for Best Lead Actor in a film Mawuli Gavor, Eddy Kimani, Abdalla Ahmed, Jaques Onyango and Eric Mutua were nominated. Other notable nominees were Pierra Makena and Catherine Kamau for Best Supporting Actress in a film,  Sanaipei Tande for Best Actress in a TV drama and Blessing Lung’aho, Alfred Munyua and Joe Kinyua for Best Lead Actor in a TV Drama.

Speaking at the unveil ceremony, KFC CEO, Mr Timothy Owase reiterated the Commission’s commitment towards ensuring that the awards continues to recognize and award local talent. “The Kenya Film Commission remains committed to the local film industry and we remain aware of the need to continually create avenues for local film makers to be recognized for their efforts in moving the industry forward. With the 11th edition, we are re-affirming our commitment to drive this agenda through the next decade, and in collaboration with,” he said. 

Public voting will constitute 30 percent whereas the Jury vote constitutes 70 percent of the total vote. The Awards  ceremony will take place on 10th December.