FAMA, Multichoice Malawi partner to host first-ever Malawi Film Festival

The Film Association of Malawi (FAMA) has partnered with Multichoice Malawi to host the first-ever Malawi Film Festival on November 25th and 26th at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe.

Malawi: The Film Association of Malawi (FAMA) has partnered with Multichoice Malawi to host the first-ever Malawi Film Festival on November 25th and 26th at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe.

FAMA president Gift Sukez Sukali made the announcement on the sidelines of a press conference in Lilongwe on Monday, November 14 2022, noting that the festival is crucial because it will provide a platform for filmmakers to present their creative ideas and stories.

He went on to say that this is a platform that will improve the quality of local productions by coordinating and networking with individuals and groups involved in the production and promotion of the film in the country, as well as preserving Malawian culture through film.

"The film festival will take place annually, and filmmakers will be celebrated because they are not considered important, are not motivated enough, and end up quitting the industry," he explained.

"Aside from Multichoice Malawi, we have also partnered with various stakeholders such as the National Planning Commission and the ministries of Tourism, Wildlife, and Culture to ensure the event's success."

Humphrey Mpondaminga, Director of Arts in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Culture, expressed the government's commitment to promoting the industry and supporting the film festival.

"You can see that the film festival's theme, filmmaking for social economic growth and cultural preservation, coincides with the MW2063 Agenda, and that's where we come in because it supports the country's economic growth, job creation, cultural preservation, and forex exchange generation," he said.

According to Zena Makunje, Multichoice Malawi Corporate Affairs Manager, they are impressed with the initiative, which they believe will help promote the film industry in Malawi and provide a platform for film-makers to premiere their short films and compete as a way of promoting skills.

"As a partner, we are bringing in award-winning Zambian actor Mutale Monde, better known as Mr Nguzu in the Zambezi Channel's Mpale series. So Multichoice Malawi will cover Carter's air ticket, lodging, and other expenses,” she explained.

The event, which has a budget of K68 million, will see members of the association present their creative ideas and stories, as well as showcase short films, movies, and awards to outstanding actors.