It was a weekend of festivities as MultiChoice Namibia successfully concluded its first-ever film festival at the Franco Namibia Cultural Centre (FNCC) in Windhoek.

The events included panel discussions by industry experts, local movie screenings and a showing of the Ombura behind-the-scenes documentary while the last day was centred around a family fun day.

 The inspiring football film ‘Ataman’ from MultiChoice’s local content project Ombura made its stunning debut as The Ell’s delivered stunning music to set the mood beforehand.

“MultiChoice would like to emphasise its commitment to supporting Namibian storytelling in principle, but practically, by growing the Namibian film and TV production sector, as well as its content industry – and showcasing our role as the biggest investor in local funding in Namibia,” said MultiChoice Namibia managing director, Roger Gertze.

On the idea behind the film festival, Gertze said Ombura served as an inspiration. “With the formation of Ombura – which comprises six feature films, a documentary, and a lifestyle series – we decided to carefully curate a stimulating and thought-provoking programme designed to unpack industry challenges, provide solutions, and share local stories that form various perspectives. I’m happy to say the entire festival was a success.”

A first for Africa’s most loved storyteller, the Film Festival delivered fireside chats with producers and M-Net commissioning editors, a MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) session with MTF alumni, packed sessions about advertiser-funded programming with Commissioning Editor for General Entertainment at MultiChoice, Etienne Daniels and finance chats with director Muneera Sallies, a masterclass with historian and acclaimed director Perivi Katjavivi as well as a conversation with the Sister Working in Film and Television members. 

Films on the show included The Funeral, Walvis Tale, The Goal, Okalila, Penda’s Dilemma & Chef’s Kiss.

MultiChoice Namibia hosted an Ombura Premiere night where it showcased ‘Ataman’ for the first time and delivered awards to filmmakers from the Ombura project.

“I am truly honoured to receive the Best Actor Award. MultiChoice’s recognition of our efforts and appreciation serves as a significant motivator. It is gratifying to know that our commitment has had a positive impact,” said Dawie Engelbrecht, the lead actor in Speel Aan.