‘THERE IS HOPE FOR FILM INDUSTRY’

MBABANE – Princess Sakhizwe says there is hope for the local film industry, as it is yet to develop.
She was speaking during an interview with this publication at Manzini Lifestyle Centre, Julios’ Cinelux Cinema, where the film ‘Baka Ngwane’ premiered on Saturday evening.

Aspiring

According to Sakhizwe, filmmakers, actors and aspiring film creatives should not give up hope as the industry is yet to take flight. “There is hope for the local film industry, because we have seen even people from South Africa coming to witness the premiere of the new film. The industry, is yet to grow, and I would like to encourage all aspiring actors in the kingdom to not give up. ‘‘They should continue to work hard even though we know the art industry has not yet developed. As emaSwati, we are coming to help and support them,” she said.

Applauded

While conveying the motivational message, she also applauded the Executive Producer of the film, Pholile Shakantu, for the remarkable work she has done for the film industry. “The passion that honourable Pholile Shakantu has about the story of the film ‘Baka Ngwane’ captured our attention, and we then decided to come and witness the premier. Her confidence and willingness to teach emaSwati about where we come from as a nation also inspired one to attend the event. It was a beautiful gathering, and I was happy to see a woman like Shakantu stepping up to elevate the local film industry,” she said.

Stemming

According to Shakantu, the film ‘Baka Ngwane’ celebrates the vibrant culture, rich heritage and remarkable birth of the Kingdom of Eswatini, stemming from Bantu-speaking Nguni people. Worth mentioning, local songstress and actress Mandisa Mamba is also featured on the film. She plays the character of Queen Choshile. The recently launched Eswatini National Arts and Culture Policy also echoes the words of Princess Sakhizwe, saying there is a need to promote the development of the film industry in the kingdom. “The film industry remains underdeveloped in Eswatini, despite the country producing internationally acclaimed creatives.

‘‘The policy will promote the development of the film industry based on traditional drama, music, dance forms and modern forms of dance presentation. This will include all theatre genres, including support for professional theatre groups. The policy will encourage the development of dramatic skills and offer opportunities for presentation to the public through television, film and public performances,” reads part of the policy.
 
 
 
 
 

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