MultiChoice Namibia on Thursday released details of the completed films that were produced in close collaboration with the national broadcaster, NBC.
This follows the announcement of the 13 producers that were selected out of over 200 submissions to participate in the first phase of the local film production project.
The ambitious project, also known as Project Mukorob, was a year in the making, and it sought to produce wholly Namibian feature films for global distribution while developing the local film
industry.
MultiChoice Namibia managing director Roger Gertze said they have seen how Namibian audiences are ready to enjoy homegrown stories from across the country’s diverse languages and landscapes.
“This is a historic milestone for the industry, as the incredible tradition of Namibian storytelling will now be showcased here and around the continent on our platforms, DStv and GOtv,” he added.
Gertze noted they are committed to building a Namibian film and television industry that will deliver benefits and develop the industry, and that they are increasing their investment in local productions.
He thanked NBC for their technical project management, which helped produce 13 quality and beautiful films, adding, “We are appreciative for their partnership in this endeavour, which brought Namibian stories to life and will promote Namibian talent on a continental stage”.
NBC director general Stanley Similo expressed the corporation’s deepest gratitude for the incredible collaboration that has resulted in the production of 13 authentic Namibian films.
“Your decision to choose NBC as the producer for these films has played a pivotal role in identifying, developing and elevating the Namibian film and arts industry to new heights. This collaboration has not only provided an avenue for our talented Namibian filmmakers to showcase their work but it has also served as a catalyst for the growth and expansion of the content creation industry with a focus on film production.”
Citing audience research that was conducted by an independent research, NEPA, he said 86% of Namibians desire to watch local content on their television.
“The opportunity you have extended to these Namibian filmmakers is truly transformative. Through this partnership, they now have a platform to share their unique stories, perspectives and creativity with audiences both locally and internationally. This exposure not only boosts their careers but also contributes to the cultural richness of our nation,” he noted.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Multichoice Namibia for believing in the potential of Namibian filmmakers and for your unwavering commitment to fostering growth and innovation within our industry. The NBC project team has put in long and hard hours into the project, resulting in a product our TV-viewing audience can look forward to,” said Similo.
The films will be aired on DStv, GOtv and Showmax platforms under the theme ‘Namibia to the world’ from the first week of September, and it will also be available on Catch Up. All films will air on NBC from December 2023 to May 2025.
Five films that have an Afrikaans and Namibian vernacular will be aired on KykNET & Kie on Sundays at 20h00, starting with ‘The Funeral’ on 3 September, followed by ‘Bokwagter’ on 10 September, ‘The Goal’ on 17 September, ‘Wish for Death’ on 24 September, and ‘Instant Love’ on 1 October.