The Kenyan government is exploring the idea of imposing a substantial tax on television stations that broadcast foreign soap operas. This proposal was unveiled during the inaugural Kenya Film Summit at Nairobi Cinema. Digital Strategist Denis Itumbi, hinted at the government’s plan to introduce a Film Funding model.
Under this proposed plan, funding would be sourced from local television stations that syndicate soap operas from international broadcasters at low rates. Local television stations airing indigenous soap operas would be exempt from this tax, aligning with the government’s goal of supporting the local film industry.
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During the event, Itumbi emphasized, “Most of our TV stations air soap operas, and these are not subject to taxation since they are received on a flash disk and promptly broadcast.”
The core source of funding for the film industry, as per this plan, would come from levies imposed on broadcasters airing telenovelas. The government contends that this approach will incentivize broadcasters to shift their focus towards local production.
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“So, if you opt to broadcast telenovelas, which have enjoyed tax exemptions for an extended period, the tax rate will be set, potentially even higher, given that we have an array of local programs readily available,’’ he added.
