By 
The recent unification of the Zimbabwe Film Industry Development Platform (ZFIDP) and the Cinema Society of Zimbabwe under the leadership of Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Anthony Mutambira signals a renewed commitment to revitalizing the sector. This strategic alliance aims to streamline efforts and align with the government’s Zimbabwe Film Strategy 2025–2030, which seeks to attract investment, promote local content, and create employment opportunities for filmmakers and actors.
The government’s commitment to funding this strategy is a promising development. Recognizing film as a medium to capture national symbols, music, language, and cultural artifacts, the government emphasizes the importance of increasing investment in film and audio-visual arts for commercialization and industry growth. Additionally, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has introduced a US$6,000 grant to support short film production, providing a much-needed boost to emerging filmmakers.
Zimbabwe boasts a wealth of talent, with many individuals having pursued studies in the arts and film at local universities. This educated cohort, combined with a burgeoning community of content creators producing engaging material on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, forms a solid foundation for a thriving film industry. However, to fully harness this potential, there is a pressing need for increased funding and partnerships that can provide the necessary resources and infrastructure.
By Ruvarashe Gora
The success of Zimbabwean films like Cook Off, which became the first Zimbabwean film to be streamed on Netflix, demonstrates the global appeal of local stories. Despite being produced on a modest budget of $8,000, “Cook Off” garnered international acclaim and showcased the resilience and creativity of Zimbabwean filmmakers. Similarly, the film Shaina, supported by USAID, premiered on Netflix, further highlighting the potential of Zimbabwean cinema to reach global audiences.
Local television channels such as ZTN and 3KTV, alongside the national broadcaster ZBC, provide platforms for airing Zimbabwean content. These channels can play a crucial role in promoting local productions, offering filmmakers the exposure needed to build their profiles and attract further investment.
Reflecting on the past, Zimbabwe has produced compelling dramas like Studio 263 and Tiriparwendo, which resonated with audiences and showcased the storytelling prowess of local creators. Reviving and building upon this legacy requires a concerted effort to invest in the industry, support emerging talent, and create an environment conducive to creative expression.
Zimbabwe’s film industry possesses the talent, vision, and cultural richness to make a significant impact both locally and internationally. By fostering partnerships, increasing funding, and leveraging existing platforms, the nation can transform its film sector into a vibrant and economically viable industry.
Comments