Fama opens first regional chapter in Mzuzu

Film Association of Malawi (Fama) has established the first of its regional chapters in the North.

This followed a two-day capacity building training workshop held at William Koyi Conference Centre last weekend.

Award-winning producer Joel Mkandawire was elected president whereas Focus Muyanga became vice-president.

Fama acting president Ezaius Mkandawire said the chapter will initiate a learning process on how associations work with regional chapters.

He said, if successful, the move will be replicated in the other regions of the country.

Speaking to the new executive committee, Mkandawire said transparency and accountability will be key to their success.

“Associations face great temptations when leaders are not careful and not cooperating. As members of this chapter, you need to be diligent and responsible,” he said.

The workshop, which pooled 26 participants, is one of the activities being conducted by the Cultural Support Scheme. The scheme is being funded by the Norwegian Embassy, but operates under the supervision of Copyright Society of Malawi (Cosoma).

“Most film makers in the country lack capacity. That is why we came up with this training to deal with aspects of film production as well as technical know-how on proposal writing.

“The training also marks the beginning of a formal film industry in the North usually sidelined in art initiatives in the country,” said Mkandawire.