ZFIDP IS HERE TO STAY

Filmmakers have come together to form the Zimbabwe Film Industry Development Platform

The year has started well for the Zimbabwean film industry, not only with some recognition of the Zimbabwean films “Cook-off” and “In my Father’s Village” on the international festival circuit, but also with the establishment of ZFIDP. This platform has been created to promote the development and sustainability of the national film and tv industry and engage government and international stakeholders on behalf of local filmmakers.

A meeting of interested filmmakers on 14th December came to the decision to form an independent organisation for Zimbabwean filmmakers. It was followed by a day-long meeting in February this year which ended in consensus on the organisation's constitution.

Other business was adjourned to two weeks later when the meeting was continued with an election of the first executive committee. In addition to the Chairman Anthony Mutambira and Spokesperson Cosmo Itai Zengeya, both founding members along with the Founder, Ms Tsitsi Dangarembga (the outgoing Vice Chair), the following posts were elected: Vice-Chairperson Rumi Katedza, Treasurer Patrick Mahlasera, Secretary Constance Mutandwa and Committee Members Joe Njagu, Eddie Ndlovu, Stella January, Shem Zemura, Nakayi Tsuro and Munya Chidzonga.

Advocacy, production value, policies as well as exhibition/ distribution committees were also elected.
The engagement and commitment of Zimbabwean filmmakers was remarkable and raises hope for a lot of positive movement in the Zimbabwean film industry.