First Sinekaya pop up on 17th June, 2026 at Unseen Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
Sinekaya is an independent cinema initiative based in Nairobi,dedicated to expanding access to exceptional Kenyan, African, and international independent films.
Why We Started
Our journey began in July 2024 at the Zanzibar International Film Festival in Tanzania. There, the three of us, filmmakers and visual artists sharing a deep-seated love for African cinema, crossed paths. Though we came from different corners of the world, we were drawn together by a shared fascination: the explosive, brilliant rise of the Kenyan film industry.
Yet, we quickly realized that the incredible talent of local creators in Kenya is heavily held back by a lack of infrastructure. This is why we started Sinekaya. Rather than letting independent voices get lost in a sea of commercial blockbusters, we want to build a dedicated space. Through locally rooted, carefully curated pop-up screenings, our mission is to enrich and deepen the film-going culture right here in Nairobi.
The Vision
We believe cinema is more than entertainment. Film has the power to inspire dialogue, strengthen communities, encourage critical thinking, and connect people across cultures and experiences.
Through pop-up screenings, curated film programs, and community discussions, we are cultivating a vibrant film culture in Nairobi while working toward the creation of a permanent independent cinema space. Sinekaya also aims to support the long-term sustainability of local filmmakers through future educational programs, professional exchanges, workshops, and exhibition opportunities.
Join us as we build a home for independent cinema in Nairobi.
The Co-founders
Josh
Programmer, Managing Director
First-hand experience of industry challenges Kenya
My Go-to African Film: Tsotsi (2005)
Haesu
Programmer, Marketing, Graphic Design Manager
Haesu is Sinekaya’s marketing and graphic design manager. Also she is a motion graphic designer and content producer. With a deep interest in the African continent, she received her M.A. in African Studies from SOAS, University of London, in 2025. She actively seeks to foster international cultural exchange by working closely with African cultures through art creation and video content, aiming to promote mutual understanding of cultural diversity.
My Go-to African Film: Hyènes (1992)
Richard
Programmer, Projectionist
13 years of cinema projectionist
African Film Festival experience in Europe
My Go-to African Film: Black Girl (1966)
Let’s Shape the Future of Kenyan Sinema, Together
We are building this screen, but the story belongs to everyone. Whether you have a wild idea, want to collaborate, or simply love cinema as much as we do—our door is wide open. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow our journey on social media to hear about our next pop-up first.
Karibuni Kaya!
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