Actress-cum-director Joyce Mhango-Chavula says the international awards Malawian filmmakers are winning reflect the progress the local film industry has made.
The seasoned actress has said this following her success in the Kenyan Yora International Film Awards where she has scooped the Special Jury Award following her directory role in the movie The Gunless Soldier.
“This shows that the local movie industry is progressing and this is evidence that we are producing films that are resonating globally. It also serves as a call to encourage other local filmmakers to tap into the global market. The opportunities are huge,” she said in an interview yesterday.
The Lilongwe-based actress said it feels good to be recognised internationally as it is an endorsement that the film has been accepted by international audiences.
She said: “It has always been my wish to have my work recognised globally and being awarded for this film is a motivation and a big push for the whole film industry in Malawi. It will open doors for more opportunities on the international stage.”
The Gunless Soldier has also been decorated with four awards at the recent UMP International Film Festival held at Cape Maclear in Mangochi, where it won four awards.
The film was awarded the Best Cinematography Award, Best Sound Award, Best Feature Film Award and Best Makeup Award.
The storyline in the movie is about mob justice and how such practice can lead to chaos. The film was produced with support from the Copyright Fund and it features names such as the late Ashukile Mwakisulu and Mphatso Chikuni.
The Yora International Film Awards are hosted in collaboration with the Kilifi Creek Festival and the Kilifi Creative Home CBO.
They are a prestigious platform for showcasing and honouring outstanding achievements in African Filmmaking and recognising international contributions in the film industry.
The awards bring together filmmakers, producers and cinema enthusiasts to celebrate creativity, innovation and storytelling excellence.
“The Yora Film Awards is more than a ceremony. It is a platform for growth, exposure and global connections,” according to the film free way.com website.
