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Trust Khosa
The five-year film and television strategy blueprint launched last year by stakeholders in the industry is paving the way for a brighter future for filmmakers.
Reports of increased funding to support the sector are emerging, creating optimism among creators.
This momentum follows the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ)’s announcement of a short film grant aimed at nurturing the growth of Zimbabwe’s film and television industry.
Last year, the NACZ, with the support of the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, convened key players in the sector to unveil a comprehensive blueprint designed to improve conditions for filmmakers.
Following the launch and the resolutions passed at the Indaba, which featured prominent figures such as Stephen Chigorimbo, Nakai Tsuro, and Aaron Chiundura-Moyo, it is evident that the sector is well-positioned for growth.
NACZ board chair Dr Nozipho Maraire, in a statement, announced the introduction of short film grants aimed at empowering local filmmakers to encourage innovative storytelling.
She also expressed gratitude to the Lotteries and Gaming Board for this support and added that the launch of this grant is evidence of continuous work to enforce the pillars raised in the Zimbabwe Film Strategy.
She outlined nine pillars of the sector that should be observed.
These pillars include governance and regulation to establish rules and regulations for managing the film industry effectively.
Funding and financing, developing necessary physical infrastructure like studios and equipment to support filmmaking, copyright protection, and fostering partnerships with local and international players to enhance production and distribution were some of the issues noted.
Additionally, enhancing marketing and distribution channels, film education and training, inclusivity, research, and development were some initiatives that need to be carried out.
In the same statement, NACZ director Napoleon Nyanhi hailed the initiative meant to boost the sector.
“It is encouraging that the Government has spearheaded the process to revitalise the film industry by committing through the national budget.
“The NACZ is also glad that the unveiling of this grant has happened because this is what the sector has been asking for.
“We are here to provide an enabling environment for our creatives,” said Nyanhi.
Similar sentiments were echoed by acclaimed film producer Ben Mahaka, who predicted a bright future for the sector.
“This grant is vitally important because the film sector has the potential to meaningfully impact Zimbabwe’s export income, and it is finally being capacitated,” emphasised Mahaka.
Under the initiative, the grant comes following the declaration of 2024, which gave birth to the Zimbabwe Film Strategy in the last quarter of last year.
“Driven by the need to breathe life into the robust implementation of this strategy, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, with modest financial support from the Lotteries and Gaming Board, is offering grant funding for the production of three exceptional short films that meet the criteria specified in this call.
“The short films must resonate with the Zimbabwean scenario, narrating the Zimbabwean story through the lens of a Zimbabwean filmmaker. The narrative shall be in sync with the pillars espoused in the Zimbabwe Film Strategy.
“The winning short films shall form the basis of a repository of Zimbabwean films to be showcased at scheduled film festivals nationally and internationally,” added part of the statement.
Under the same initiative, the NACZ will enlist the services of a registered film institution to monitor progress and ensure the completion of the short film productions.
Outlining the nature of the grant, it will benefit those with a proven and traceable capacity and ability to produce a short film.
Having the ability to produce irrefutable and recognised references in the mould of ZBCTV, 3KTV, NRTV, ZTN, or others will be an added advantage.
Proof of ownership of film production equipment or proven ability to access such equipment is a requirement.
Beneficiaries should have the capability to provide a treatment, synopsis, budget, and shooting schedule as part of the application.
Membership in a recognised film organisation/association, duly registered with the NACZ, is another requirement. Additionally, the production must be a new short film with a maximum duration of 20 minutes.
Each successful submission shall receive a maximum of US$2 000, to be disbursed through an arrangement with Empower Bank.
With many questioning eligibility, the grant funding is open to Zimbabwean filmmakers, including those who are permanent residents, as long as they satisfy the criteria above.
Female filmmakers are particularly encouraged to apply.
For transparency’s sake, a panel of five experts (seasoned film-makers) shall conduct the adjudication process guided by a stipulated methodology informed by the conditions of entry specified above, added the statement.
Lastly, the story should resonate well with a clear Zimbabwean narrative. Market research, strong visuals, and budget transparency will make it easier for funding to be granted, as they require a clear breakdown demonstrating how funds will be used effectively.
Arts regulatory chiefs also welcomed the announcement of the short film grant as a step in the right direction.
Online Reporter