Film Association of Malawi (Fama) has extended a begging bowl to raise funds to enable it’s members participate in the Arkwood Africa Film Market and Awards (AAFM).
The AAFM are set to take place between November 21 and 23 in Ethiopia and seven members of Fama are invited.
Those invited include the association’s president Dorothy Kingston and producers Isaac Misoya, Joyce Mhango-Chavula, Jamil Chikakuda, Jevas Mchitakuoha, Zofuna Namwaza and Patrick Kachinjika.
The association is on a drive to raise about K29 million to cover for transport and accommodation costs.
In an interview yesterday, Misoya said participating in the film market will provide them with insights that will promote the film industry and create more opportunities for Malawian filmmakers.
“We will have a chance to learn from Ethiopian film
makers who have an advanced film industry. They have achieved that growth through
initiatives such as development of a film city and other projects,” he said.
Misoya said the collaboration between the filmmakers from the two countries aims to foster future partnerships and enhance opportunities between them.
“While we have collected part of the amount, we appeal to organisations and government for further support,” he said.
On her part, Kingston said the event is crucial for Malawi’s film industry as it offers an opportunity to learn from our peers, connect with the industry’s professionals from various countries, and engage in a thriving film market.
“Filmmaking is not just about entertainment; it is a business that requires us to understand how to market our films beyond our borders. Therefore, this film market is important for our growth,” she said.
Kingston said Fama is actively working to raise funds to support its members’ travel, covering airfare, accommodation and local transportation.
