Celebrating the Grand Launch of the Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs)

The Zimbabwean film industry has reached an extraordinary milestone with the successful launch of the highly anticipated Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs). The inaugural event, held in the vibrant city of Harare, brought together renowned filmmakers, industry professionals, and esteemed guests from both Zimbabwe and abroad. With an impressive lineup of attendees and virtual participants, the ZAFTAs marked the beginning of a new era in Zimbabwean cinema. Let’s delve into the highlights of this remarkable event.

Distinguished Guests and Invited Filmmakers
The ZAFTAs welcomed an array of distinguished guests, including notable figures from the film and television industry. Among them were Mr. Melgin Tafirenyika of Light Image Productions, a prolific Zimbabwean filmmaker currently based in the US, Mrs. Lucia Kanyongo, Head of Programming at 3KTV, and Mr. Manuel Matsinye of Megacon Pictures, an esteemed filmmaker. Their presence added an extra layer of prestige to the event, reflecting the growing international recognition of Zimbabwean talent.

Plenary Speech by Mrs. Jessie Allen
Mrs. Jessie Allen, the Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTA), Vice President of the Cinema Society of Zimbabwe, and the founder of JAC Film School in the UK, delivered an inspiring plenary speech. As a Zimbabwean visionary with extensive experience in the industry, Mrs. Allen shared her insights, emphasizing the importance of fostering creativity and excellence in Zimbabwean cinema. Her speech resonated with the audience and set the tone for the event.

Support from partners
The Cinema Society of Zimbabwe, as the custodian of the awards, played a pivotal role in organizing the ZAFTAs. Their commitment to upholding the highest standards of excellence and promoting industry growth and development was evident throughout the event. Additionally, partners and guests from Botswana, Zambia, Nigeria and Ghana joined in the celebration, highlighting the collaborative spirit and regional impact of the ZAFTAs.

Encouragement from Prominent Figures
The launch of the ZAFTAs received notable encouragement from key figures within Zimbabwe’s arts and entertainment sector. Dr. Samwanda, Director of Arts Promotion in the Ministry of Youths, Sports, Arts, and Recreation, expressed his support and enthusiasm for the awards. Mr. Stephen Chigorimbo – veteran multi award winning  filmmaker and Mr. Emmanuel Nyamayedenga, former 3KTV General Manager, were also present, further illustrating the industry-wide recognition of the ZAFTAs.

Presence of Industry Influencers and Journalists
The event attracted a diverse range of industry influencers and journalists, further amplifying its significance. Ms. Lizzie Dziva of Multichoice, Joe Njagu, a prolific Zimbabwean filmmaker, and Panashe Shoko and Tony Mliswa of Castlly Distribution were among the notable attendees who graced the occasion. Their presence not only added glamour but also highlighted the importance of celebrating and supporting Zimbabwean filmmaking endeavors. Journalists from ZimNow were also present, capturing the excitement and significance of the ZAFTAs for wider audiences.

Virtual Participation of Filmmakers
The ZAFTAs embraced the power of technology by allowing virtual participation from filmmakers across the country. Filmmakers from all walks of life joined the event remotely, demonstrating the widespread enthusiasm and support for the awards. This inclusive approach ensured that the ZAFTAs reached a wider audience and provided a platform for filmmakers to connect and contribute to the conversation.

Conclusion
The launch of the Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs) marked a momentous occasion in the history of Zimbabwean cinema. With notable guests, inspiring speeches, and a diverse array of attendees, the event showcased the immense talent and potential within the Zimbabwean film industry. The ZAFTAs are not only celebrating the achievements of filmmakers but also setting the stage for a vibrant future, fostering creativity, collaboration, and excellence. As the industry continues to grow, the ZAFTAs will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in recognizing and elevating Zimbabwean cinema on both local and international stages.