Zanzibar and Tanzania have taken a bold step forward in the film industry with the launch of Stream East Films Ltd, a digital platform aimed at promoting local films across the islands and East Africa.
The platform empowers filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience while safeguarding the ownership and revenue of their creative productions.
The official launch, held at Madinat Bahr Hotel in Zanzibar, brought together government officials, members of the Film Producers Guild of Zanzibar (FPGZ), and cultural stakeholders from across East Africa.
The event underscored the region’s commitment to leveraging technology to transform its creative industries.
“Through Stream East, artists now have the opportunity to earn legitimate revenue from their work, distribute films globally, and safeguard the ownership of their creations. Zanzibar is becoming a hub for the East African film industry,” said Salma Adim, Secretary General of Stream East, during a special interview.
For decades, Zanzibar has been a cradle of artistic and cinematic talent. Since the establishment of Zanzibar Television (TVZ) in 1972, the islands have nurtured local actors, drama productions, and homegrown storytelling.
Early icons such as Masoud Mohammed Rashid (Dk. Ayoub) and brothers Ahmed and Jaffar Ali (Suwed) laid the foundation for Zanzibar’s vibrant entertainment scene.
Despite this rich history, many local films struggled to reach international audiences, limiting revenue opportunities for artists.
Advances in technology, however, have opened the door to global digital platforms, and Stream East is providing a historic solution, connecting East African filmmakers directly with viewers worldwide.
A Legacy of Creativity and Innovation
Zanzibar’s film industry has long been a story of creativity, technological adaptation, and resilience. From patriotic cultural productions to modern digital storytelling, the islands have continuously evolved while maintaining their artistic identity.
Stream East builds on this legacy, ensuring that filmmakers can secure their intellectual property while reaching audiences far beyond East Africa.
A New Era for East African Cinema
The launch of Stream East signals a transformative chapter for Zanzibar and East Africa’s film industry. By combining technology, professional training, and regional collaboration, local filmmakers now have the tools to present their stories on a global stage.
For citizens, this development promises not only new cultural experiences but also economic opportunities through a growing creative economy.
As Zanzibar positions itself as a hub for East African cinema, Stream East is set to usher in a new wave of storytelling, creativity, and commercial growth, giving local artists a chance to shine internationally and inspiring the next generation of filmmakers.