Filmmakers Association of Malawi (Fama) has sought an engagement with its former partner Goshen City Trust to resolve issues between them that led to the premature severance of a sponsorship contract.
The request comes a week after Goshen City terminated its collaboration with Fama purportedly following an internal review of the partnership and a reflection on a strategic realignment to allow each organisation to pursue their objectives independently.
In a statement released yesterday, Fama said they have requested a meeting with Goshen City Trust leadership to explore ways to resolve any issues.
“Fama believes in roundtable discussions with its partners when there is any issue. Goshen City is Fama’s strategic partner in as far as promotion and exposure of local films is concerned. Goshen City has played a huge role in making sure that Fama gets the exposure and the support to establish an office and have a colourful film awards and gala,” reads the statement in part.
Fama said they want to meet Goshen City president Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and its management.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, Fama general secretary Ignatius Kamphinde confirmed reaching out to Goshen City as part of their attempts to mend their relationship.
He said: “We have same goals as strategic partners. The film industry is growing and Goshen City’s involvement is essential. This is why meeting them is important for us to see how we can move forward.”
In a separate interview yesterday, Goshen City director of communications Aubrey Kusakala said they cannot make a comment on the request because they are yet to receive formal communication from Fama.
“We will give our verdict on the proposed meeting after proper communication channels have been followed,” he said.
The disengagement by Goshen City Trust sparked speculation on social media.
However, Goshen City Trust played down any talk of a possible rift with Fama insisting that they retain a cordial relationship and that their decision was spurred by their shift in focus to concentrate on charity work.
