East African musicians star in new film

The 59-minute film, which premiered last week, was co-produced by the musician’s production company Pro Habo in partnership with Big Ideas Entertainment. 

Nonini, who was once the chairperson of the Performers Rights Society of Kenya (PRISK), says the film is an overview of how the Kenyan music industry functions. It is about a womanising detective working to uncover a drug cartel that is trying to gain control of the entertainment industry. The cartel's members intimidate and kill to gain access to the lucrative business.

"The inspiration behind the movie was our entertainment industry in Kenya and its cartels, and also different detective movies," Nonini told Music In Africa. "But the whole concept was born from one of my 2010 music video concept for 'Kila Mmoja', which featured Chege and Lady B.

"I mainly major in music video scripting, so creating a movie is always an exciting challenge. Currently, I have just finished my autobiography documentary film, which will be out soon. My next project is to create a sequel for Code 254 in the near future."

Asked whether the movie industry in Kenya is more lucrative than the music business, Nonini said: "Both are lucrative internationally, but unfortunately in Kenya the entertainment industry will not make you rich. It is not taken seriously and it is considered a side hustle."

"If projects like this were done abroad, all the actors, including me, would have made really good money. My thoughts on Riverwood are that it has the potential to grow if given the required support. It is another option for entertainment as well as employment."

Code 254 is rentable online for 48 hours at 200 Kenyan shillings and 600 shillings to buy on My Movies Africa – a Kenyan digital outlet offering movies on smart devices.

Rent or buy Code 254 here.