adminLiberty Dube Entertainment Correspondent
CONTENT producers and independent film makers in Manicaland have hailed the ongoing process of migration from analogue to digital television broadcasting saying it would proffer them an opportunity to produce a diverse and fully-fledged content reaching out locals.
The digitalisation is set to usher in more channels with content ranging from sports, music, documentaries, arts and culture as well as educational programmes.
In interviews on the sidelines of a consultative meeting where the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe, Transmedia and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Services hosted independent film producers at Mutare Hall on Thursday, producers pledged to provide enough content.
The migration will see Zimbabweans waving goodbye to showery signal, poor and sound quality while ZBC would be able to transmit more television and radio channels.
Talented producer, Ignatius Matope whose shot film, Fatima, won top prize at last year’s Zimbabwe International Film Festival, said the process was set to create jobs for them as well as other youths who are talented artistically.
“We have been waiting for something like this for quite a long time and we are happy. We strongly believe that the programme will create jobs for us film makers.
“Scores of independent producers are sprout in Mutare and could not get the chance to showcase their talents. This is a grand chance to shine and we hope the government will support us,” he said.
Tendai Chirozva, a film maker said the programme was a blessing and would be an effective forum of communication between producers and the viewers.
“This is brilliant. We can’t wait. We have a lot of content that we believe will help create synergies between us producers and viewers. People will learn different social etiquettes and way of living in different parts of the country through programmes such as cultural and tourism programmes as well as profiles of prominent people, artistes and politicians. Most independent producers have been lacking exposure so this digitalisation programme will play a critical role for us to be known,” said Chirozva.
Honde Valley TV production manager, Paul Dairai Mutseyekwa said the six high definition channels will lure more viewers because of high quality of sound and picture.
“Unlike in most cases where producers get nothing out of their sweat, the system that viewers would have to pay to view the channels will see producers financially benefiting. Producers will get paid and that will be a great motivating factor. The revolution is quite a game-changer and we are happy. We are also guaranteed of high picture and sound quality thereby luring more viewers. This will also mean that the industry will be supported,” said Mutseyekwa.
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