Renowned South African actor Zolisa Xaluva is expected to attend this year’s Malawi Film Awards and Gala, previously known as Malawi Film Festival, scheduled for December 18 and 19 at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
The award-winning actor, known for his roles in Kings of Jo’burg, Generations, Gomora and Blood Psalms, is among other international guests expected to grace the event, with others yet to confirm their attendance.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Film Association of Malawi (Fama) president Dorothy Kingston said this year’s edition seeks to celebrate filmmakers and actors for their contribution to the local film industry.
“This event is for players in the film industry and we will award them for their contributions. However, we urge
the public to support the event for it to be successful,” she said.
Kingston said the event will feature international actors as part of efforts to build regional networks and expose Malawian talent to new markets.
“We want to use the event to host master classes for actors to learn from international colleagues and gain knowledge on how they can improve their art to align with global standards of film production,” she said.
Kingston appealed to well-wishers to partner with Fama in supporting the event, whose budget stands at K117 million to cater for logistics and the cost of hosting international guests.
On his part, event coordinator Phil Kuipa Phiri encouraged the public to support the event, saying it was time Malawians showed more appreciation for the local film industry.
“We have previously faced challenges with low patronage, but with the new name and approach, we want people to appreciate the industry’s growth,” he said.
Phiri said the audience should expect an improved experience and a renewed focus on showcasing the progress Malawian filmmakers are making in the film sector.
The event will feature both local and international films, which will be screened on the first day while the second day will be dedicated to the awards ceremony and live performances from local musicians, whose line-up will be announced soon.
