Pricilla Mukokobi
The Namibia Film Commission (NFC) on Wednesday launched the Namibian Sisters Working in Film and Television (SWIFT) chapter.
Established by filmmakers Ndakalako Shilongo and Othilia Tutu Mungoba, this supportive unit will run under the NFC and will provide Namibian women in television and film an opportunity to pronounce their talents in a conducive environment without fear or favour.
A survey will be conducted to gather insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by female creatives in the film and television fraternity. Findings from the survey will direct the broader objectives of SWIFT, to ensure that the organisation innovates projects that are need-based.
The commission thus calls on all women filmmakers to participate in this survey in order to determine the foundational principles and objectives of SWIFT.
Meanwhile, the NFC has increased its budget from N$3 million to N$6 million this year, aimed at creating a conducive environment that develops a vibrant and sustainable film industry in Namibia.
NFC deputy director Florence Haifene made the announcement recently at the commission’s first industry stakeholder engagement for 2023. The meeting was intended to update industry players on the NFC’s new strategic direction and its planned projects for the new financial year 2023-2024.
Haifene said the NFC’s focus is to revive the local film industry with innovative ideas, partnerships, and training initiatives.
“Between now and next year, we want to see improvement in our local film industry. We want to tackle all the challenges our filmmakers are facing. The NFC has identified markets for the Namibian local film industry and we are looking forward to that,” she said.
The commission has also extended support to students who wish to pursue a career in the film industry through a bursary programme.
“We want to see our film industry grow. We want to achieve more and create value in the film industry. We want to see our movies on an international level. We want to see Namibian content out there,” she said.