Kenya hosts workshop to address concerns around filming intimate scenes

In response to growing concerns over the handling of intimate scenes and safety protocols in Kenyan film productions, MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Kenya Film Commission, hosted Kenya’s first-ever Masterclass on Intimacy Coordination and Safety on Set.

The two-day workshop, held on 1st and 2nd October, brought together over 100 industry stakeholders from East Africa to confront critical issues surrounding the safety and well-being of actors during the filming of intimate scenes.

The workshop followed a recent survey that exposed the prevalence of sexual harassment and discomfort surrounding intimate scenes in Kenyan productions.

Speaking about the urgency of addressing these challenges, MTF Eastern Africa Academy Director Victoria Goro emphasized the need for change.

"With a significant number of young women pursuing careers in the film industry, it was imperative to initiate a dialogue on safety and well-being on set. This Masterclass provided a platform for industry professionals to learn best practices, foster a culture of respect, and ensure that intimate scenes are filmed in a safe and ethical manner," she stated.

Bodo Immink, GIZ Country Director, praised the initiative, saying: "By bringing together industry professionals, we have not only raised awareness about critical safety issues but also generated valuable insights and actionable steps. Moving forward, we aim to continue collaborating with all stakeholders to implement these recommendations and ensure lasting positive change in the film industry."

Kenya Film Commission CEO Timothy Owase echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for industry-wide professionalism.

" Kenya Film Commission is committed to advancing the professionalism of the film industry. By hosting this Masterclass, we address a crucial aspect of production that often goes overlooked. We believe that it is important to empower the young professionals in the industry with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate intimacy related storytelling with respect and sensitivity."