Kenya Film Commission has confirmed the theme, dates, and program focus for the 2026 Kalasha International Film & TV Market, Festival and Awards. The new theme, “Innovating Tradition – Re-inventing Storytelling One Frame at a Time,” pairs Kenya’s heritage with emerging tech and global markets. Organisers set the awards gala for 2 May 2026 in Nairobi, with the submissions deadline on 13 February 2026.
Kalasha 2026 theme in focus
The theme invites creators to modernise folklore, formats, and workflows. It highlights tools like virtual production and advanced sound while keeping stories rooted in place. Industry briefings and trade coverage cite the same headline message and connect it to export ambitions for Kenyan content.
Dates that matter to producers
Key milestones are now public. Call for submissions closes on 13 February. Jury evaluation runs 1–15 March. Nominees are due on 25 March. Public voting follows through March and April. The awards night lands on 2 May. These checkpoints help crews lock deliverables and plan campaigns.
Market expansion signals deal making
The International Film & TV Market remains a central draw. It hosts tiered booths for startups, established brands, and premium pavilions, with side events for pitching and training. The market is designed as a three-day trade fair where buyers, platforms, and producers transact. In this context, a market is a curated B2B fair that matches projects with financing and distribution.
Nairobi readies the festival week
The 14th edition is scheduled for 28 April to 2 May 2026 at Kenyatta International Convention Centre, combining the market, screenings, and the awards. Official posts from the commission confirm the venue and the five-day window.
Why this edition matters
Kalasha is one of Kenya’s leading screen events, a platform that blends recognition and commerce. It convenes filmmakers, TV producers, streamers, equipment suppliers, and policy actors to drive co-production and sales. The event’s growth aligns with Nairobi’s push as a regional hub for audiovisual business. Nairobi and the commission position the week as a catalyst for jobs, skills, and exports.
How to prepare now
Producers should finalise screeners, clearances, and metadata before the 13 February cut-off via the Kalasha portal. First-time entrants can review the rules page to confirm eligibility and required credits. After nominations, teams can plan audience outreach across TV and digital platforms.
In sum, Kalasha 2026 sets a clear path from submissions to gala night, with a larger market built for real deals. The theme bridges culture and technology, while the timeline gives creators a firm schedule to follow.
