Film Association of Malawi (Fama) is targeting to raise K250 million for this year’s Malawi Film Awards and Gala planned from November 23 to 26 at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
According to Fama secretary general Scot Kaphinde, the association is engaging prospective sponsors to raise funds for the event, but has already secured the venue and other crucial requirements.
“It is encouraging to note that this year’s event is attracting the attention of the corporate world,” he said
Kaphinde said they are optimistic that continued engagement with the corporate stakeholders will help organisers meet the financial target.
This year’s programme will include roundtable discussions, training sessions and film screenings, alongside the awards ceremony, according to Fama.
More than 20 international guests, including Nigerian actors Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as Mama G and Kanayo O. Kanayo, are expected to attend.
Kaphinde said last year’s edition helped Fama to demonstrate the potential of Malawi’s film industry to corporate sponsors.
“We sent a strong message to the country and the world at large that the film industry has taken a new shape,”he said.
Kaphinde acknowledged that the association faced organisational challenges during last year’s edition, as it was its first time managing an event of such magnitude.
However, he said Fama drew lessons from the experience and strengthened its organising team in preparation for this year’s gala.
The awards will recognise excellence in filmmaking, celebrate local stories and give Malawian productions visibility.
In a separate interview, film producer Brian Magombo, whose production Pa Mango Lodge won an award last year, said the Malawi Film Awards and Gala adds value to the country’s film industry by recognising the efforts of creatives.
“Recognition is what every creative looks forward to, especially when it comes from structures that have been put in place to drive efforts of promoting the industry’s growth,” he said.
Magombo said although the benefits may not always be financial, they still contribute to the industry’s growth by recognising industry players.
He, however, urged organisers to broaden the participation of international guests beyond actors to include film distributors and other key industry players who influence the movement of productions, create market opportunities and help local filmmakers reach wider audiences.
Through the department of arts in the ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, Fama has already received support from partners, including the United Nations Development Programme and Bex Limited.
