Technological Drivers of User-Generated Content in Local Film and Television Production in Kenya
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of
technological factors of user-generated content (UGC) such as the
accessibility of digital devices, internet connectivity as well as
social media usage to on the quality, quantity and diversity and
budgets of local film and TV production in Kenya.
Methodology: The study used a descriptive cross-sectional
mixed-methods design to examine the influence of technological
factors of UGC on local film and TV production in Kenya. The
target population was 2,716 local film, TV producers and UGC
creators on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. A sample of 384
respondents were selected using proportionate stratified random
sampling technique. Qualitative data was collected through
interviews with 24 key informants from the local film and TV
production industry, KFC, KFCB, KECOBO, DFS and CA who
were selected using purposive sampling. Primary data was
collected using questionnaires and analyzed using both the
descriptive analysis (percentages) and inferential statistical
analysis (correlation, regression and ANOVA) methods. The
analyzed data was presented in graphs and tables and was also
interpreted statistically.
Findings: The findings revealed that 71% of respondents agreed
that digital devices are accessible, with 88.5% highlighting their
ease of use, which has democratized content creation and enabled
wider participation. Reliable internet connectivity was viewed as
essential by 78.6% of respondents, with 41.6% strongly agreeing
that uninterrupted internet access facilitates efficient content
dissemination and real-time collaboration. Social media
platforms were recognized as critical enablers, with 96.2%
agreeing that they promote UGC creation, while 91.4% noted that
content-sharing trends positively influenced local film and TV
production by enhancing visibility and engagement. These
findings emphasize the pivotal role of technological factors in
supporting innovation, accessibility, and growth within Kenya's
local film and TV industry.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The
findings of the analyzed data revealed that technological factors
of UGC, when considered with the influence of media policy have
a significant positive influence on local film and TV production.
Additionally, the study uncovered the perceived usefulness,
accessibility and ease of use of these technologies in the creative
processes highlighting the importance of technology and its
integration with supportive media policies in the positive growth
of local film and TV production in Kenya. The study suggests that
the integration of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and
the Advocacy Coalition framework (ACF) explain the influence
of UGC on local film and TV production in Kenya. It broadens
the application of TAM to creative industries, showing how
access to digital devices and internet connectivity drive media
production. Altogether, this research bridges theory, practice and
policy, enriching the understanding of how UGC influences local
film and TV production in Kenya.