Renowned South African actor Zolisa Xalusa has urged filmmakers in Malawi and across Africa to produce more movies to change the continent’s negative image often shown by foreign filmmakers.
The actor made the remarks at the Film Association of Malawi (Fama) Awards held over the weekend, which celebrate individuals who have done exceptional work in Malawi’s film industry.
Speaking in an interview, Xalusa said filmmaking is important because it allows Africans to tell their stories and helps shape the narrative about the continent.
“The African story needs to be told by Africans because America itself tells its own stories and gives us a narrative from their point of view and that makes us see them the way they want,” he said.
Xalusa further said lack of African-produced films gives room for others to misrepresent the continent which helps drive a false narrative about the continent.
“We were once kings and queens and yet when we get portrayed, we’re portrayed as savage animals from the dark continent and that is not who we are. So, film can play a huge role in terms of creating that publicity for Africa,” he said.
Xalusa also stressed the need to invest in the film industry, saying this helps improve quality and attract investors who are crucial for the development of the industry.
“The reason people come and invest in South Africa is because we have infrastructure. We have also invested in the arts where you can go to university in South Africa, do a four-year degree in acting, directing and producing. Therefore, the quality of work we produce is of decent standard,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prophetess Mary Bushiri, who together with her husband Prophet Shepherd Bushiri sponsored the event with K100 million, said supporting the industry is important for Africa’s image.
“We support this because we also like programmes that tell stories of our nations. Again, we support programmes that are taking us to the globe, representing Africa,” she said.
Bushiri added that films promote unity among people.
On her part, Fama president Dorothy Kingston said inviting filmmakers from other African countries has helped Malawi gain industry knowledge and build partnerships.
“People from other countries are not just coming here for the awards, no. People such as Zolisa are here for bigger things. We have talked of partnerships and collaborations,” she said.
