Kitale Film Week, Kenya’s rapidly growing 8-day film festival held in Trans Nzoia County, is excited to announce the addition of three renowned film industry professionals to its 2025 selection committee: Tosh Gitonga, Pierrick Chabi, and Cassandra Onwualu.
These respected experts will play pivotal roles in shaping the festival’s lineup, ensuring it continues to be a leading platform for African filmmakers as the festival continues to expand its reach and impact. The third edition will run from Sunday, February 2nd to Sunday, February 9th, 2025.
Tosh Gitonga, a celebrated Kenyan filmmaker and founder of Primary Pictures, has over two decades of experience in the industry. Known for directing the critically acclaimed Nairobi Half-Life, Kenya’s official submission to the 85th Academy Awards, and the Netflix hits ‘Disconnect ‘ and ‘Disconnect: The Wedding Planner’, Tosh is a driving force in Kenyan cinema. His involvement in the selection committee is set to elevate the festival’s quality and influence across Africa.
Joining Tosh is Beninese-French entrepreneur Pierrick Chabi, the founder and CEO of Wakatoon, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing children’s content through interactive and creative AI-powered animation. Pierrick’s innovative approach to animation and media technology will offer fresh perspectives on content creation, opening new opportunities for African animators to showcase their work on a global stage.
“Enabling people to unleash their creativity is my favourite challenge,” Pierrick said.
Cassandra Onwualu, a Nigerian film producer, marketing, and distribution strategist, brings a wealth of experience in promoting and distributing African films to international markets. She has been instrumental in the success of films like ‘The Wait’ and ‘Gwoza’, and is currently leading the release of ‘The Weekend’ —the first 100% Nigerian-funded film to be selected for the Tribeca Film Festival. Cassandra’s expertise will be instrumental in highlighting bold, captivating African stories at the Kitale Film Week. Her knowledge of global film distribution and marketing will also enhance the festival’s ability to attract international attention to African stories.
“I am honoured to be a part of the selection committee for this festival,” she said. “Every filmmaker dreams of having their work seen, discussed, and appreciated. Regional festivals like Kitale Film Week are essential for spotlighting and celebrating the compelling films being created across Africa.”
These three distinguished professionals join a seasoned team of industry leaders, including festival competition manager Wangui Ngunjiri, festival director Peter Pages Bwire, Ugandan film curator Joel Tugaineyo, and Tunga Media Africa founder Makandi Mbae.
Together, this experienced team will curate a lineup of films that reflect the diversity, creativity, and boldness of African storytelling.
