Zimbabwe Film Strategy launched recently is meant to boost industry growth…
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has unveiled the Zimbabwe Film Strategy 2025–2030, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to revitalize its film industry.
The launch event, held in Harare on November 20, 2024, brought together key stakeholders, government representatives and film practitioners from across the country.
The strategy document provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of Zimbabwe’s film industry and highlights areas for improvement.
Contributions from industry professionals point to untapped potential in production quality and revenue generation across the film value chain.
Government Commitment to Film Industry Transformation
Acting Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Kazembe Kazembe, represented by Deputy Minister Honourable Emily Jesaya, emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming the sector.
Speaking at the event, Jesaya reaffirmed the government’s focus on achieving the national vision of a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society by 2030, with film positioned as a key contributor.
“The Zimbabwe Film Strategy provides a roadmap to address longstanding challenges while unlocking opportunities for sustainable growth,” said Jesaya.
Strategic Pillars to Drive Industry Growth
The Film Strategy is built on nine core pillars, which will guide implementation over the next five years:
- Governance and Regulation
- Funding and Financing of the Industry
- Infrastructure and Facilities
- Copyright Protection
- Local, Regional, and International Collaborations
- Markets and Distribution Channels
- Film Education and Training
- Inclusivity
- Research and Development
These pillars align with national objectives and aim to foster a thriving, inclusive and globally competitive film industry.
Call for Collaboration
Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana highlighted the critical role of broadcasting platforms in distributing local films.
“Our ministry is committed to ensuring that local productions find a home on our television screens and beyond,” Mangwana said.
The strategy’s success, according to NACZ, depends on collaboration among stakeholders including government agencies, private sector investors and filmmakers.
Industry Practitioners Welcome New Strategy
Celebrated filmmaker Joe Njagu lauded the government’s efforts, describing the strategy as a landmark achievement for Zimbabwean cinema.
“This is the first comprehensive document of its kind, and it gives us the structure we need to move forward as an industry,” said Njagu in his closing remarks.
Zimbabwe Film Strategy: A Vision for the Future
The Zimbabwe Film Strategy 2025–2030 aims to position the country as a hub for high-quality, globally recognized productions.
With strategic priorities and key performance indicators now in place, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential for growth and innovation in Zimbabwe’s film industry.
