Film Association of Malawi (Fama) has partnered Cape Maclear International Film Festival (Cmiff) in a deal envisaged to promote local filmmakers to showcase their productions.
The partnership also aims to increase visibility for local filmmakers and actors to promote their work.
The collaboration comes ahead of Urban Music People (UMP) Festival scheduled for October 21 to 27 in Mangochi.
Cmiff will organise local film screenings during the festival. It will also highlight profiles of local actors through Movie Industry Spotlight Series which will use digital platforms to promote talent in the industry.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lilongwe on Friday, Fama president Dorothy Kingston said the partnership will promote local films and grow the industry.
“This partnership will provide filmmakers and industry players a platform to showcase their films. It will also boost recognition of their contributions,” she said.
Kingston added that while Fama was established to coordinate artists in film production and promotion, it is important to work with like-minded organisations.
“One of the most important things we can leverage to grow this industry is partnerships that align with our objectives,” she said.
Cmiff team leader Samantha Banda said the partnership is about creating an event that not only showcases films, but also supports up-and-coming filmmakers, promotes dialogue and introduces local productions to the global stage.
In a separate interview, Cmiff film manager Chikumbutso Willard said although UMP Festival is mostly known for music, they want to expand its scope.
“We will include movies which will be screened alongside international films in the presence of international filmmakers,” he said.
Willard added that the partnership will also include film awards to recognise outstanding industry players.
He said the award categories will be developed in collaboration with Fama who will also help to select judges.
Willard said the one-year partnership could be extended depending on the performance of both parties.
