Ngoma joins music finalists in Uganda

Actor Kelvin Ngoma is in Uganda where he has joined nine other finalists in preparation for the African Monologue Challenge on August 18.

This comes after he appealed for financial assistance to cover his travel expenses which amounted to K1.7 million.

Ngoma, who is at the Pan African House in Uganda, has expressed gratitude to those who contributed towards his travelling.

“I am grateful to Wendy Harawa. All I can say is thank you very much for listening to my plea and coming forward. I know you have so many things requiring finances, but you managed to spare some for me to realise a dream and represent the country. May you continue doing this to other people,” he said.

This event, which showcases some of Africa’s talented actors, presents an opportunity for the finalists to highlight their skills and promote their countries’ arts on a global stage.

Ngoma and the others are engaged in a three-week programme before the final.

“This time is crucial for learning, networking and collaboration. We are training, teaching each other and preparing for the finals. This experience is not just about competition, but about building a united African cinema community,” he added.

On her part, Harawa said Ngoma’s passion and desire to represent Malawi prompted her to help.

“I believe in empowering talented individuals to reach their full potential. I saw an opportunity to make a positive impact on his career and enable him attend the actors meeting in Uganda,” she said.

Harawa underscored the challenges artists face in sourcing finances.

The African Monologue Challenge saw over 2 000 entries from across the continent.

MK Casting, Ghana’s premier casting company in collaboration with the African Chamber of Content Producer, is the brains behind the initiative.

The other nine contenders are from Uganda, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Cameroon and Cote D’Ivoire.