THE aspirations of the 2025 Year of Film were celebrated in full on Wednesday last week as Zimbabwean cinema marked a milestone with the launch of three short films: No Where Girl, Homecoming and Kukomba.
The event, held at Magic Cinema, Sam Levy shopping centre, showcased the growing synergy among government, funders, filmmakers and cultural institutions in elevating the nation’s creative economy.
The launch was made possible through a US$6 000 grant from the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), facilitated by the Lotteries and Gaming Board, which has since increased its contribution to US$10 000 for 2026. The films exemplify storytelling that is deeply rooted in Zimbabwean culture while engaging contemporary social issues.
Speaking to a near-capacity audience, a representative of the Lotteries and Gaming Board underscored the significance of creative industry in national development.
“Apart from entertaining, you shape values, you inspire, you educate. You unify, document history and imagine the future,” he said.
The representative emphasised that institutional support for film is not merely a statutory duty but a commitment to nurturing human potential, identity, and hope.
Keep Reading
- Creatives urged to plough back into communities
- Arts council extends Nama entries submission date
- European film fest Zim shifts base
- Jakwara film competition to unearth new talent
Jonathan “Dyrekta O” Samkange, producer and lecturer, shared the inspiration behind No Where Girl.
“One day, I saw a young girl crying on the road. That encounter sparked the story. Through the film, we have been able to place her in school, even beyond the initial funding,” he said.
The film involved non-professional actors, highlighting the power of cinema to amplify community narratives. Tatenda Hove, director of Kukomba, explored the complexities of cultural identity and womanhood.
“The film examines the coming-of-age ceremony in our culture, focusing not just on tradition but on the emotions, empowerment, and sensuality of women as they embrace their heritage,” she explained.
Bridget Paradza, writer and director of Homecoming, highlighted the originality of her approach.
“I chose to tell a story from the perspective of a valet who witnesses an accident. It allowed me to explore overlooked perspectives while staying truthful to Zimbabwean culture,” she said, acknowledging the contributions of her cast and crew.
Nosipo Maraire, NACZ board chair, lauded the Year of Film initiative as a fulfilment of the council’s commitment to fostering film infrastructure, creative talent and industry sustainability.
“Film is more than entertainment; it is a cultural mirror, documenting who we are and how we navigate the world,” she said.
The panel discussion, moderated by Maraire, featured ophthalmologist and philanthropist Solomon Guramatunhu, actor and producer Munya Chidzonga, and fund manager Rudo Nyangulu Ngofa. They explored the economic, cultural and financial mechanisms necessary to sustain Zimbabwe’s burgeoning film industry.
The event was graced by representatives from the Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture ministry.
The launch underlined the successes of the 2025 Year of Film resolution and the leadership of NACZ chief executive officer Napoleon Nyanhi, whose ability to mobilise funders, including lotteries and gaming boards, strengthened the local film ecosystem.
The increase in funding for 2026 signals continued growth and opportunity for filmmakers across Zimbabwe.