Image: Courtesy
Film director Philip Karanja says the greatest challenge Kenyan film industry is facing is lack of support from the government.
"It is very hard for me to shoot in the city, and that is hindering us so much," Philip told Word Is on Friday.
"That is why when people talk about Nairobi in other countries, the only pictures they see are from slums because that is where anyone can shoot videos without restrictions."
Philip started acting on Citizen TV’s drama TV show Tahidi High, where he was popularly known as ‘Melvin’.
On Friday, he received an award at the graduation ceremony at the Kenya film school.
"Topping off the cake on this awesome day is being recognised as an industry champion in this lovely country of ours," Philip wrote on Instagram.
"The event was a graduation ceremony for Kenya Film School, which was one of the Jubilee manifestoes to push the creative economy, and I have been partnering with the school to train the students."
He says Most Kenyans are now appreciating film and things are changing for TV. "Having been born and brought up in the Dandora, I have been working with those young talents from there to create more chances," Philip said.
He encourages other filmmakers to be patient before everything. "I am happy because I have mentored so many brands in the industry now who are making major moves, the likes of Njugush," he said.