The remuneration for actors in Kenya falls significantly below the standards observed in other countries, notably South Africa. In contrast to the considerable earnings of main actors in South African soap operas, ranging from R25,000 (equivalent to Ksh176,605) to R60,000 (Ksh423,853) per month, Kenyan actors face comparatively meager compensation.
Despite the rise of local programs dominating the screens, the common misconception that local actors lead lavish lifestyles akin to celebrities is misleading, as their earnings are modest, as outlined below according to information compiled by the US.
For TV show actors, A-list performers, exemplified by Sarah Hassan, receive Ksh25,000 per episode, while newcomers in leading roles take home around Ksh10,000. Depending on the TV show, supporting actors are compensated between Ksh10,000 and Ksh15,000. Actors without dialogue earn Ksh7,000, whereas those with lines receive Ksh10,000. Extras without lines earn a meager Ksh2,000, with a fortunate few pocketing Ksh5,000.
In the realm of film, Kenya’s industry has struggled to gain prominence, attributed to production costs and a lack of government support. Earnings for actors in locally produced movies reflect these challenges, with leading A-list actors receiving Ksh100,000 per movie, supporting cast members taking home Ksh70,000, peripheral actors with lines earning Ksh15,000, and those without lines being compensated Ksh2,000.
Despite these modest figures, the film industry is exhibiting signs of growth, particularly with the emergence of local productions on platforms such as Netflix.
While the financial compensation may not be comparable to other countries, actors in Kenya have the opportunity to enhance their income through alternative avenues such as becoming brand ambassadors. Noteworthy instances include Papa Shirandula and David Mwambili, who played Inspekta Mwala, both of whom secured lucrative deals as brand ambassadors through their appearances in advertisements.
