Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) on Tuesday held a high-level film industry roundtable in Harare that brought together local filmmakers, producers, directors and screenwriters for a collaborative dialogue aimed at accelerating the development of the local film sector in line with the Zimbabwe Film Strategy.
The strategy, which aims to promote local content, was launched in 2024 and will run for five years.
It was developed in consultation with filmmakers, stakeholders and international partners.
The primary goal of the document is to serve as a guide for rebuilding, retaining and sustaining the sector while adhering to future policies.
The engagement by the NACZ featured a delegation from the US Embassy in Harare, including Public Engagement Coordinator Butho Nyathi, acclaimed Hollywood producer Alix Madigan and Africa Creative TV project head Dorin Amina Abubakar.
The US envoy is visiting as part of a broader US-Zimbabwe cultural exchange and capacity-building programme.
The discussion aimed to explore opportunities, address challenges and develop strategic plans for expanding Zimbabwe’s film industry.
Author, neurosurgeon and NACZ board chairperson Dr Nozipo Maraire provided compelling insights into existing gaps within the sector, emphasising the critical need for collaboration, regional co-production and stronger institutional support for local content creators.
In an engaging exchange, Zimbabwean filmmakers highlighted the urgent need for funding models, sustainable production ecosystems and access to international markets.
The visiting experts stressed the importance of ongoing training and mentorship to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of local practitioners.
NACZ director Napoleon Nyanhi expressed gratitude to the US Embassy and the visiting experts for their commitment to nurturing Zimbabwe’s film potential.
He noted that these engagements are a positive step towards realising the goals outlined in the Zimbabwe Film Strategy and creating sustainable opportunities within the creative industry.
As part of this collaboration, the US Embassy is also hosting a series of technical film workshops in Harare this week, offering practical training to aspiring and established filmmakers at Zimbabwe Film and Television School of Southern Africa (ZIFTESSA).
Online Reporter