Film has potential to grow economy, says ZAFA

THE Zambian Filmmakers Alliance (ZAFA) has expressed delight at the rate at which the Zambian film industry is growing, stating that it has the potential to grow and put the country on the world map while contributing to the country’s economic development.

ZAFA chairperson Kenneth Pelete however said there is need to invest in new knowledge and skills in order to fill the gaps in policy making for the benefit of the industry.

Pelete further states that the film industry it is the only industry that employs all careers such as chefs, teachers, nurses among others. He has also appreciated media houses for their role in growing the industry by airing the locally produced content.

He said: “All that is remaining is for the Government to come in and at least help us because we don’t need to be exploited. People are making money from our content but at the end of the day, as filmmakers, we are getting peanuts, sometimes a thank you which is not good for the industry.

“So we need the government to come in, as much we are pushing and trying on our side, the Government should do its part by enacting favorable policy that will favor us as filmmakers,” he said.

Pelete who is a teacher by profession has not only featured in a number of soaps and movies, he has also produced a number of them which are currently running on local television stations.