A documentary is a non-fictional film that captures reality, reconstructs events, or sheds light on untold stories.
The second day of the Kitale Film Week was testament to the power of documentary filmmaking— as an art form that doesn’t just tell stories but ignites conversations, unearths hidden histories, and tackles taboos head-on.
The day’s line-up of thought-provoking films did just that, leaving audiences engaged, moved, and eager for more. One of the documentaries of the day was He Knows This Place by Melissa Lefkowitz. The film follows Liu, a Chinese national who moved to Kenya at the age of 12. As an adult, he finds a way to give back to the community through talent shows in Mathare, bringing together diverse performers and inviting fellow Chinese nationals to volunteer. Commenting on the film, one attendee Nora emphasised the film’s importance in breaking stereotypes about foreigners, proving that belonging isn’t about where you’re from but how you show up for a community.
Another powerful screening was Descendants of Broken Heroes by John Waiganjo, which explores the generational effects of Kenya’s struggle for independence. The film follows men from Nyeri, whose ancestors were Mau Mau freedom fighters, and examines how their families continue to carry the psychological scars of the past. This deeply emotional documentary sheds light on inherited trauma, mental health struggles, and the resilience of those striving to redefine their identities beyond history’s shadows.
Few documentaries dared to be as bold as Unyagoni by Saitabao Kaiyare which follows Bahati Ngazi, a well-known Mombasa radio personality, on a transformative journey in sex education. The film immerses audiences in the hidden world of Swahili wisdom keepers, exploring how traditional teachings can blend with modern education to break taboos and inform future generations. By tackling subjects often shrouded in silence, Unyagoni doesn’t just push boundaries—it redraws them.
The night concluded with Limo on the Run by Njoki Muhoho a gripping documentary that does more than just entertain, it reignites that critical conversation on film distribution in Kenya. As the credits rolled, filmmakers and audience members alike engaged in a lively discussion, reinforcing the idea that Kitale Film Week is more than a showcase—it’s a movement.
Additional Screenings from Day 2 included:
- Afrikki (2025) – Gaëlle Le Roy, Senegal
- Sounds of Silence (2024) – Joan Mwihaki Kabugu, Kenya Shorts Block Featuring:
- The Sorghum Sisters (2024) – Tabitha Maina, Kenya
- Bahari Bingwa (2024) – Samuel Wanjohi, Kenya
- The Equalizer (2024) – Brenda Maina, Kenya
Meanwhile, an outdoor screening of Wamaitha (2024) by Kang’ethe Mungai at Kipsongo drew an enthusiastic crowd, reaffirming the power of cinema to bring communities together and spark meaningful dialogue under the night sky.
To book exclusive events with a TICKETING PARTNER, check out tickets.sanaapost.com 😎👊🏾
