Tukuze Kilifi (Let’s Grow Kilifi)
"Tukuze Kilifi" is an inspiring documentary set in the vibrant farming community of Matsangoni, Kilifi County, Kenya. The film follows the transformative journey of smallholder farmers as they revive their livelihoods through sustainable agroforestry, guided by the Empowering Farmers Foundation (EFF). Central to this transformation is the cultivation of one million cashew and moringa trees, providing not only climate resilience but also economic empowerment for over 10,000 farming households.
The narrative is brought to life through personal stories of local farmers, particularly Josephine Baya, a retiree who shares her experiences of overcoming challenges from market constraints to the loss of hope in the cashew sector. Through the introduction of high-quality cashew seedlings, the farmers now see the fruit of their labor, supported by training, market access and the formation of the Mibibo Farmers Cooperative Society.
Beyond cashew farming, "Tukuze Kilifi" also explores innovative solutions such as beekeeping. As a perfect complement to cashew farming, bees enhance pollination, increasing crop yields while providing new income opportunities for the youth through honey production. This sustainable practice not only boosts local economies but also promotes environmental conservation.
This film also highlights the broader impact of agroforestry and drought-resistant crops, like finger millet, which are improving food security and nutrition for Kilifi's communities. As the film unfolds, it portrays how community-driven, climate-smart agriculture and innovative partnerships can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future in Kilifi County.
-
Omar KibulangaDirector
-
Omar KibulangaWriter
-
Omar KibulangaProducer
-
Josephine BayaKey Cast
-
Project Type:Documentary, Short
-
Genres:Documentary, Social impact, Environmental
-
Runtime:13 minutes 46 seconds
-
Completion Date:August 20, 2024
-
Production Budget:2,300 USD
-
Country of Origin:Kenya
-
Country of Filming:Kenya
-
Language:English, Swahili
-
Shooting Format:MPG4
-
Aspect Ratio:16:9
-
Film Color:Color
-
First-time Filmmaker:No
-
Student Project:No
An award-winning filmmaker whose cinematic journey is deeply rooted in a profound love for Swahili culture and a burning desire to amplify its stories on the global stage. Omar's film production is infused with the rich amalgamation of coastal traditions, values and social dynamics. His accolades, include panelist invitations at SOAS University of London, University of Ghana and Technical University of Kenya; interviews by BBC and Deutsche Welle; appearances at prestigious film festivals like the Berlinale; and multiple wins at the Kalasha International Film & TV Awards among other festivals.
"Tukuze Kilifi" is a story of resilience, hope and transformation. As a filmmaker, I have always been drawn to stories that highlight the intersection of people, the environment and sustainable livelihoods especially along the Kenyan coast. When I first heard about the Tukuze Kilifi initiative, I knew this was a powerful narrative that needed to be shared—not just within Kilifi or Kenya, but globally.
For me, this film is not just about farming — it's about hope, empowerment and the fight against climate change. It’s about the human spirit and its capacity to rebuild from the ground up, both literally and metaphorically. It’s about telling the stories of people whose work is quietly transforming our world, one cashew tree, one beehive and one community at a time.