Alfred Munyua aka Alfie is a renowned screen star who has starred in many Kenyan and international films, the latest being Showmax’s police procedural and legal drama series Crime and Justice. He talks to Manuel Ntoyai about his journey as an actor and aspirations. 

When did you realise that you had an acting talent?

I realised my talent back in primary school through the very keen eyes of our teachers.

I could find myself reciting poems and giving vote of thanks during school functions. My compositions and inshas were also ranked highly.

How has the growth process been like for you?

On both creation and actualisation spheres, the growth process from high school and college drama to professional stage, theatre, TV and film has had its highlights; some rosy, others not.

But all I can say is the journey has taught, hardened and exposed me to the realities of our great industry.

You have featured in both Kenyan and international films. What are the biggest lessons you’ve drawn from this?

God has graciously granted me the opportunity to be part of local and international projects.

The lessons I can draw from both experiences is that they should never change my drive and passion, as I embark on the projects, despite the wide difference the two industries are. In all aspects though, I still give my best to all.

What are the bottlenecks that have hindered the Kenyan film industry from going bigger?

Greed is the only problem we have. It begins from the very top to the local person down there.

We have great actors, the best crew in the world, magnificent locations and all else that is required for a lucrative theatre, TV and film industry.

But the greed amongst the industry players always gets in the way towards making this sector great.

Do you have one most memorable set  that you’ve been into?

Every set I’ve been into has it’s own memories and vibe. I can’t really pinpoint any specific one. Maybe my next project will be, you never know. Ha-ha-ha.

How did you land your role as Silas in Crime and Justice?

Like any other gig, I went to auditions, but this one has been different from others I have been to.

I’ve never been to a more rigorous process. They were very organised and well set.

I was recalled more than eight times and the process went on for a period of over two months. Finally, God said yes. I thank Him eternally.

Tell us more about the role?

Silas is an experienced detective with many years under his badge. He is a family man.

He loves his job, but over the years, his passion has decreased gradually as his urge to solve cases accepted the reality that the system is very subjective.

He isn’t lazy or corrupt though; he just realised along the way that he can’t reinvent the wheel.

And so, gradually, and without him maybe noticing, the passion had gone down over the years.

How is the chemistry between you and your crime-solving partner Sarah Haasan?

Sarah is an amazing human being, and being with her on set is a joy, pleasure and an honour, as she is always at the top of her game despite her many commitments.

She’s passion-driven and is so much fun to be around. I’m proud to be associated with her.

What’s the status of our creative sector?

Ignorance is the biggest enemy and nobody is ready to tell the truth and give everyone their rightful dues after a job well done.

We are talking about an industry that is worth over Sh200 billion each year, but the environment is not conducive, and goodwill form concerned authorities is lacking.

I mean, we have been talking about film incentives such as rebates in order to attract foreign investment into the Kenyan industry, but nothing seems to be coming.

Then we have an issue with our collective management organisations, which are supposed to back us up, but are feasting on our misery. But greed is the common denominator.

So, I’m just one voice trying to fight for our well-deserved rights that are long overdue. It’s a hard battle, but God is with us.

How do you balance your family and TV life?

When it comes to work, it is all about the mindset. We all work in different industries and for me, the film set is my office.

So, when I go there, it is all about work. When that is over, I go home, which is also my safe and private place, and rest. That is where the balance of life is.