Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
LUPANE is rapidly establishing itself as a creative hub in Matabeleland North, with the local film industry gaining momentum through innovative collaborations between institutions and local creatives.
At the heart of this movement is Ukhalo, a new film produced by Bambatha Creative Arts in partnership with Lupane State University (LSU) and other regional stakeholders.
Written and directed by Styx Mhlanga and produced by Mthandazo Mahlangu, the project showcases the area’s finest creative talents, with cinematography and editing by LSU lecturer, Innocent Mwapangira.
The film stars Faith “Mazilankatha” Ncube as Yoliswa, the spirited lead character, alongside Buyile C.
Mhlanga as Welly, Percy “The Poet” Ncube as Bra Joe, Lovely WakuMunzi as Mbatha and Lawrence “The Penpusher” Moyo as Alumbwe Mupande.
Mhlanga described Ukhalo as a gripping short film told in isiNdebele with touches of Tonga, weaving together themes of love, betrayal and youthful rebellion.
“It’s set in Lupane and nearby villages. Ukhalo, an African traditional contraceptive, explores the life of Yoliswa (Yoli), a vibrant and intelligent 17-year-old high school boarder. Yoli dreams of becoming a psychiatrist to help people with mental disorders, like her late mother,” said Mhlanga.
He explained that the plot follows Yoli’s rebellious streak as she sneaks out of school in search of music, fun and risky escapades with her boyfriend Welly, “The Cool Ostrich”. A freak accident during one of their adventures leads to her suspension, forcing her to confront the wrath of her abusive stepmother and bewitched father, Alumbwe.
“Ukhalo is full of suspense and real-life lessons. People should watch out for the premiere — it’s going to blow them away,” he said.
In a ground-breaking move for the local industry, Ukhalo will premiere in Lupane this October — a milestone aimed at boosting community engagement with film.
LSU lecturer Innocent Mwapangira, said the film is poised to make a meaningful impact on Zimbabwe’s film industry.
“By blending academic expertise with community engagement, this production not only elevates local storytelling but also positions Lupane as an emerging hub for creative talent. The film’s focus on cultural narratives fosters pride and awareness, while its success could attract more collaborations, funding, and opportunities for aspiring filmmakers in the region,” he said.
Mwapangira noted that while Lupane’s film sector is still in its infancy, it holds immense promise.
“Initiatives like Ukhalo showcase this potential, but challenges such as limited resources, inadequate training and weak infrastructure remain.
“To ensure sustainability, Lupane needs investment in equipment and training to build local capacity; stronger partnerships between institutions, communities and industry professionals; platforms for distributing and showcasing local content; and both government and private-sector support through grants and policies that nurture creative economies. With sustained effort, Lupane could become a vital player in Zimbabwe’s film revival,” said Mwapangira.
The associate producers include Nokukhanya Moyo (Matabeleland North National Arts Council of Zimbabwe), Hildigard MaNyathi (Women Centre), Father Mkandla (Ekuhlengeni Catholic Mission), Denson Kulube (LSU) and Nkosilathi Sibanda (Ministry of Sports, Arts and Recreation). — @mthabisi_mthire
