Yakwetu


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Mark Dinn


Piracy is prevalent in Kenya, robbing content owners of valuable revenue. Now a new digital movie distribution platform is fighting back. Meaning “of us and for us” in Kiswahili, Yakwetu aims to support creators by interrupting the piracy value chain at its source: Kenya’s “movie shops”, where customers pay to have popular yet pirated content copied directly to their flash drives.
<figure>
<img src="https://www.wipo.int/export/sites/www/wipo_magazine/images/en/2024/2024_art_13_4_845.jpg"/>
<figcaption> Yakwetu team. (Photo: Albert Nyakundi) </figcaption>
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But with subscription services holding just 1‌ percent market share in Africa, how can Yakwetu convince customers to adopt its disruptive pay-as-you-go model? Co-founder and COO, Mike Strano, tells WIPO Magazine about its creative approach to streaming in Africa, its focus on local content, and how it’s “legitimizing piracy channels”.

<h4>What prompted you to set up Yakwetu?</h4>
In 2014, Safaricom, Kenya’s leading telecoms provider, made a public tender for content. At the time, in-home internet connectivity bundled with content was popular and Safaricom wanted to secure its position in that market. So my co-founder, Trushna Buddhdev Patel, and I put in a tender. I had been working in the entertainment sector since 1999 and Trushna is an experienced cinema distribution professional. We realized that streaming video on demand (VOD) was the way to go in Kenya – at the time, there were only about two million TV sets in Kenya versus 13 million smart devices. Our content streaming journey began in October 2014.

<h4> Tell us more about Yakwetu and its content. </h4>

Yakwetu is an online streaming platform for African content.

We launched our first streaming service, MyMovies.Africa, in September 2019 and have since been developing Yakwetu, which allows us to offer a broader range of content. We have seven verticals: movies, TV series, music, virtual reality, podcasts, audiobooks and games, all in one place. Each vertical has a slightly different revenue model. We plan to plug in ad-supported content soon, to deliver a hybrid model, where free content comes with ads but you pay for ad-free content. Customers can sign up for free on a pay-as-you-go basis and can buy or rent content from us. That’s a truly African model and it works.

At present, 90 percent of our content is Kenyan. It’s easy to access. But our ambition is to carry content from across Africa. We’re targeting Gen Z and Gen Y; these are the generations that are growing in Africa. We are also including edutainment in our catalogue. That’s important right now in Africa given the challenge of youth employment. Young people make up more than 60 percent of the African population. If they don’t have work, how are they going to support themselves and their families? The risk is that they turn to crime. That’s why it’s so important to empower them and help them find ways to earn a living. On top of that, it’s a massive market and something we can easily adapt our technology to.

    "Customers pay to have trending content copied onto their flash drive. The creators don’t get a penny."

<h4> What does Kenya’s movie market currently look like? </h4>

<img src="https://www.wipo.int/export/sites/www/wipo_magazine/images/en/2024/2024_art_13_2_845.jpg"/>

The movie market is dominated by the piracy retail chain, which in Kenya alone consists of an estimated 54,000 movie shops. Subscription-based streaming platforms in Africa hold just 1‌ percent of the market. Data costs are high and people use their data bundles to generate income, not to stream movies. Customers go to the shops and pay their “movie guy” to copy trending content onto their flash drive. They go home, watch it, delete it and go back for more. The creators don’t get a penny.

Under Kenyan law, movie shop owners can be arrested for carrying pirated content, whether local or international. If convicted, they face two years in jail and a USD 5,000 fine, which they can’t afford. The perception of shop owners is that major international studios may be unlikely to file a complaint against them with police; however, a local producer may have them arrested. So, almost all movie shops don’t carry local content - only international; meaning that everyone loses out.

    "Piracy takes up to 99 percent of the revenue of content owners in Africa. It’s crippling the creative industries."


<h4>How is Yakwetu tackling piracy in Kenya?</h4>

We see Yakwetu as a piracy intervention. Piracy takes up to 99 percent of the revenue of content owners in Africa and other developing nations. It’s crippling the creative industries.

With our new service launching in Q4/2024, customers still go to their movie shop but, when the shop downloads local content from our cloud, it’s legitimate and encrypted onto the client’s flash drive. When they plug their flash drive into their TV, our player is installed, allowing them to watch local movies on a legitimate pay-as-you-go basis, without drawing on their precious data bundle.

With our model, the shop owner, content owner and Yakwetu are paid in real time via our respective mobile wallets. Everyone wins. Once we demonstrate that we have a customer base that is consuming legitimately through the movie shops, we’ll tackle international film piracy in collaboration with the major studios.

<h4> What response are you getting from the movie shops? </h4>

We already have a list of movie shop owners that want to work with us. Things are getting tougher for them but they still dominate the market. The reality, though, is that these shops will never be in a position to meet the security requirements to set up a legitimate video library.

When we license our content to them, we do so on our terms. That means our content is encrypted (and can’t be copied) and only plays on our player. As we recruit movie shops as agents, we tell them up front that, in 10 years, their business (as distributors of pirated content) may no longer exist, especially as data costs fall and people become more comfortable with streaming. By working with us, we’ll help them transition to a legitimate business operation. We believe this is the most socially responsible way to deal with the situation, since these movie shops are usually operated by young people, so we must be careful not to contribute to the massive youth unemployment in Kenya and Africa.


<h4>What’s the commercial opportunity for streaming local content in your target markets?</h4>

It’s massive. PwC estimates the market to be worth USD 5.7 billion per year - in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Tanzania alone. Even if we took a modest market share there, we would be a USD 100 million company.

When we started this journey, our aim was for the internationals to license their content to us. They are willing to do that, because we meet their technical requirements for content security; but they don’t move without a minimum guarantee of USD 100,000. That doesn’t work for us right now, so we’re focusing on local content. We see it as a great opportunity, given the rise of the creative industries of Africa in recent years.

    "We’re doing something different. What we bring to the table is local focus and local solutions."

<h4>Are you competing with the big streaming platforms?</h4>

No. It will take years for the big streaming platforms to match the penetration levels they enjoy in developed markets. There’s just too much free pirated content available and people don’t want to use their data bundles to stream movies.

We’re doing something different. We’re intervening in the piracy retail chain and legitimizing the piracy channels. No big streaming platform is going to do that. Theirs is a one-size-fits-all global model, where anything outside their main markets is a plus. What we bring to the table is local focus and local solutions.

    "Funding is a big challenge. To scale we need capital investment and that’s tough because entertainment is considered a luxury and not a frontline need."

<h4>How are you supporting African filmmakers and musicians? </h4>

<img src="https://www.wipo.int/export/sites/www/wipo_magazine/images/en/2024/2024_art_13_3_845.jpg"/>
At present, the big streamers in the African market are paying creators often less than 20 percent of the cost of <a href="https://www.wipo.int/copyright/en/creative_industries/how-to-make-a-living-from-movie-copyright.html" target="_blank"> producing a film </a>. They also want all rights for two years but don’t do anything with them. That means if you spend USD 50,000 to produce a movie, you get just USD 10,000 to stream it. How do you make up the difference when, after two years, your audience will have moved on?

That’s where Yakwetu comes in. We create income-yielding opportunities for our creators beyond our platform by sublicensing their work to VOD platforms, TV stations, airlines, festivals and more. We have different splits for different scenarios but we ensure each partner gets an equitable share. For example, when a film is distributed through our platform, we split 50–50 with the film producer; when working with an agent, we split the returns three ways between the agent, creator and ourselves. And when we secure deals with other platforms, it could be a flat free or a split. It depends. Everyone agrees in advance and contracts are set up. Creators who have an exclusive deal with us know the value we offer.

And, of course, we also pay royalties for the music in our content to CAPASSO (the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association) in South Africa.
    "It’s all about education. For us, content and its protection are king."

<h4> What are key challenges for Yakwetu? </h4>
Funding is a big challenge. To scale we need capital investment - and that’s tough, because entertainment is considered a luxury, versus a frontline need. We understand, but we also believe entertainment is a basic need. We want investors to understand that, by disrupting the piracy value chain, we’re helping Kenya’s creative industries to thrive in the long term.

<h4> How is Yakwetu building IP awareness? </h4>

It’s all about education. At Yakwetu, we have very strict content-management protocols, which we developed with international content in mind. For us, content and its protection are king.

We also educate our partners on how to protect their own content. For the education of consumers, we join forces with others, via Partners Against Piracy (PAP) Association of Kenya, for which I’m the inaugural chair.

    "Creators, take the time to find out how IP can protect your content, help you defend your rights and leverage the value of your work."

<h4> What’s your message to creators, consumers and governments? </h4>

Creators, treat your creativity like your most valuable asset. Take the time to find out how <a href="https://www.wipo.int/about-ip/en/" target="_blank"> intellectual property</a>(IP) can protect your content, help you defend your rights and leverage the value of your work. There are many free online courses that can help with this, including from the WIPO Academy.

Consumers, use platforms that give content creators a fair share of the revenue they generate. That way, we all benefit from a vibrant creative industry.

Governments, remember your role as enablers of the creative industries. Work closely with the sector to understand its needs in terms of legislation and to pass that legislation quickly. Today, everyone’s a creator. There’s no better time to raise IP awareness. The new generation respects creativity, they just need to learn how to use IP so they can reap its benefits.

<h4> How does Yakwetu’s WIPO Global Awards win support your business? </h4>

Our dedicated team are greatful that our hard work has been recognized! But this is just the beginning. Now we have a great responsibility, to live up to the award. It’s a validation of our business model, as well as an opportunity to explain to new investors what we are doing and attract the resources we need to scale. The award will take us to the next level. We’re ready for that.

Yakwetu won the WIPO Global Award for Entertainment Technology in 2023. The <a href="https://www.wipo.int/global-awards/en/" target="_blank">WIPO Global Awards </a> celebrates small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for their excellence in commercializing IP-backed innovation and creativity in an effort to improve society. Yakwetu won the WIPO Global Award for Entertainment Technology 2023. This year’s winners were announced during the General Assembly of Member States in Geneva in July.



Source: https://www.wipo.int/wipo_magazine_digital/en/2024/article_0013.html

How Kenya’s new movie platform is tackling piracy – and putting African content first


<ul>
<li>Actor Nick Kwach, also known as Baba Ryan, celebrates winning Best Actor in East Africa at Zanzibar International Film Festival </li>
<li>He won the award for his role in the film 'Otis Janam </li>
<li>The film stands out for its compelling storytelling and production quality, weaving together social and cultural issues</li>
</ul>

Nick Kwach aka Baba Ryan celebrates after he was crowned Best Actor in East Africa for his role in 'Otis 'Janam'.

Thespian and media personality Nick Kwach has achieved a significant milestone in his career.

The father of one has been voted the Best Actor in East Africa by the jury at the Zanzibar International Film Festival.

This accolade comes in recognition of his outstanding performance in the film 'Otis Janam'.

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<figcaption>  Kenyan actor Nick Kwach  </figcaption>
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<h4>Nick Kwach celebrates Zanzibar film award </h4>

Nick Kwach took to social media to share his excitement and gratitude with his fans. In his post, he expressed appreciation for the cast and crew of 'Otis Janam', acknowledging the collective effort that led to his success.

“I am elated to announce that I was voted the Best Actor in East Africa by the jury at the Zanzibar International Film Festival for my role in 'Otis Janam.' Thank you Zanzibar Film Festival for validating the immense effort put in by the entire team.

"Thank you Zippy Okoth for the opportunity to live my dream and the team at Legacy Arts Lab. Thank you, producer Waya, Lorela Jowie for casting me in this project. Mercy Masese, you are the best. The whole crew and cast of 'Otis Janam,' this is yours,” Kwach wrote.

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<figcaption> Kenyan actor Nick Kwach </figcaption>
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<h4>About 'Otis Janam' </h4>

'Otis Janam' is not just another film in Kenya's burgeoning film industry. While it may not be the first indigenous language film scripted and produced by Kenyan filmmakers, it stands out for its compelling storytelling and production quality.

The film is a testament to Dr Zippy Okoth's talent as a writer and producer. The film weaves together a rich tapestry of social and cultural issues, all framed by a heartwarming love story.

Nick Kwach plays the titular character, a lazy fisherman whose life takes a dramatic turn when he wins a boat-racing championship.

<img src="https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/1d0k9kpTURBXy9kMTYwNWQ3ZjRhMjljYjVmMGZmZGZjOTcxNWI4YWJjMC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNA9zCw94AAqEwBqExAA"/>

This victory not only earns him respect but also the heart of Api, played by Sarah Masese, the daughter of the wealthiest man in the village.

As their romance blossoms, Janam faces numerous challenges that could change his life forever. The narrative explores themes of polygamy, alcoholism, sexism, and domestic violence.

<h4> Nick Kwach's acting career </h4>

Nick Kwach is no stranger to the screen. He has appeared in numerous productions, including 'Chaguo' on Netflix, 'County 49', and the recent 'Jiji' on Showmax.

Apart from his acting roles, Kwach is also known for creating comedy skits as Baba Ryan, a character with a dramatic baby mama Mama Ryan (Aicy Stevens).

<img src="https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/dGfk9kpTURBXy8wNzhjYmQ3MDk0ZmJhZDhkZDhjMmMwN2I5YTY2NDE0ZS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNA9zCw94AAqEwBqExAA"/>

Winning the Best Actor award at the Zanzibar International Film Festival is a significant achievement for Nick Kwach. It not only recognises his talent and hard work but also shines a spotlight on Kenyan cinema.

Kwach's win is a source of pride for the entire Kenyan film community, inspiring other actors and filmmakers to pursue their dreams.




Source: https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/movies/nick-kwach-wins-best-actor-award-at-zanzibar-international-film-festival/xqn89gq

Nick Kwach named best actor in East Africa at Zanzibar International Film Festival


Mark your calendars! This Saturday, July 27th, an exclusive screening and discussion of the captivating Luo film “Janam Otis” is scheduled to take place at Out Reality, located in the basement of The Mall, Westlands.

The event, hosted by #WeWatchKenyan, will kick off with a screening from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by an engaging Q&A session with the cast and crew.

WeWatchKenyan, created by Yakwetu in collaboration with MyMovies.Africa™, is a monthly watch party dedicated to promoting local films and content. The initiative aims to build a community of Kenyan creatives and enthusiasts who appreciate and support Kenyan cinema.

“We are excited to meet our fans and share the story behind the story,” says Dr. Zippy Okoth, Writer, Director, and Executive Producer of “Janam Otis.”

Adding to the excitement, “Janam Otis” has been officially selected to screen at the prestigious Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF). “What a way to also celebrate our recent Official Selection for ZIFF,” Dr. Okoth added.

“Janam Otis” follows the journey of Janam (Nick Kwach), a seemingly lazy fisherman whose life takes a dramatic turn when he wins a boat-racing championship. His victory not only earns him a prestigious title but also wins the heart of Api (Sarah Masese), the daughter of the wealthiest man in the village. As their romance blossoms, Janam faces challenges that could redefine his destiny. Will love prevail against all odds?

Tickets for this special event are on sale now for just KSh 499. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of “Janam Otis” and connect with the talent behind this remarkable film.



Source: https://www.kenyanvibe.com/wewatchkenyan-to-screen-nick-kwachs-luo-film-janam-otis/

 #WeWatchKenyan To Screen Nick Kwach’s Luo Film ‘Janam Otis’


Anticipated Kenyan movie “Where The River Divides,” is ready to take audiences on a transformative journey that transcends boundaries and redefines the cinematic landscape.

Set against the mystical backdrop of the Thimlich Ohinga archaeological site in Migori, “Where The River Divides” is poised to make its grand debut and carve its mark in the hearts of viewers.

With the premiere scheduled at Anga Cinema, Diamond Plaza, the anticipation is building for this cinematic revelation.

The event is set to unfold on Tuesday, August 15th, at 2 PM, promising an unforgettable experience for all those in attendance.

At its core, Where The River Divides unravels a mesmerizing tale woven around the life of a young protagonist, intricately connected to the legacy of his esteemed clan leader father.

Upon returning to his village after a transformative baptism, the young man finds himself standing at a crossroads that holds the power to redefine his destiny. One path beckons him towards the hallowed duty of inheriting his father’s illustrious legacy – a path laden with traditions, responsibilities, and towering expectations. The other path introduces him to a new horizon, where the allure of Christianity tugs at his heartstrings, offering a fresh sense of purpose.

This internal conflict serves as the pulsating heartbeat of the movie, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the protagonist’s profound struggle.

Yet, the film’s true essence lies in its ability to weave together the tapestry of shared human experiences, transcending barriers of language and faith. It resonates with the universal emotions and aspirations that bind us all, reaffirming the interconnectedness of humanity.

Director M.D. Neely delves into the film’s essence, remarking, “At its core, ‘Where the River Divides’ grapples with the concept of sacrifice. It compels us to examine what we are willing to relinquish in order to heed the call of destiny. Dennis’s journey, as portrayed in the film, has touched and inspired me deeply. Collaborating with an exceptional team of artists to bring this narrative to life has been an honor.”

Where The River Divides authenticity is reflected in its original filming in the evocative Dholuo, which has been meticulously dubbed into Kiswahili and English.

This careful translation ensures that the movie’s narrative resonates with a diverse global audience, fostering a sense of unity through understanding.

As the world gears up for the grand premiere, “Where The River Divides” is poised to make its digital debut as well.

The film will be available for streaming across a staggering 195 countries and territories, providing an exclusive online premiere through the Digital Cinema Extension – MyMovies.Africa™ platform. The virtual curtains will rise on this digital extravaganza at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, August 15th, 2023.

Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, the visionary co-founder, content director, and CEO of Yakwetu – the parent company of MyMoviesAfrica – expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This film, rooted in Kenya’s rich history, fills us with immense pride.

The global distribution of ‘Where The River Divides’ resonates with its universal themes, and we are thrilled to showcase it on our very own Video On Demand service, MyMovies.Africa™.”

In a world brimming with distractions, “Where The River Divides” stands as a poignant reminder of the weight of our choices and the enduring impact of compassion. As the film embarks on its voyage across screens around the world, it beckons audiences to join in contemplation, inviting them to find a shared resonance in the face of life’s most monumental challenges.

Source: https://www.kenyanvibe.com/where-the-river-divides-kenyan-film-to-premier-at-anga-cinema/


Where The River Divides’: Kenyan Film To Premier At Anga Cinema

Showing posts from kenyan-film tag

How Kenya’s new movie platform is tackling piracy – and putting African content first

Nick Kwach named best actor in East Africa at Zanzibar International Film Festival

#WeWatchKenyan To Screen Nick Kwach’s Luo Film ‘Janam Otis’

Where The River Divides’: Kenyan Film To Premier At Anga Cinema