Nairobi played host last week to the Animation Distribution Lab, a unique programme designed to strengthen the capacity of East African animation studios. Coordinated by the Association of Animation Artistes Kenya (A3K) in partnership with France in Kenya’s Maurice Chapot, the lab created a collaborative space for animators to rethink distribution strategies at a time when the global animation industry is facing significant challenges.

The initiative followed the group’s participation at MIFA during the Annecy Animation Film Festival in France earlier this year. Unlike the global festival, however, the Nairobi lab offered a more intimate and open environment for participants to confront obstacles in distribution and brainstorm practical solutions.

The programme featured a distinguished line-up of mentors, including Tshepo Moche, Vanessa Ann Sinden, Smid Animation’s Damilola Solesi, Arnauld Boulard, and Sébastien Onomo, who shared their expertise and experiences while also acknowledging the insights they gained from the East African studios.

Organisers expressed hope that similar labs can be replicated across Africa, calling on governments to recognise and invest in the potential of film and animation as a cultural and economic driver. “There is light ahead,” said one of the coordinators, noting that fostering collaboration and dialogue among creatives is a critical step toward building sustainable solutions for the continent’s animation industry.

Source: Sarah Mallia