The Namibia Film Commission (NFC) has appointed a new board, which says it will explore new ways to strengthen the infrastructure of the local film industry.
The board, with film-maker and producer Esther Beukes as its chairperson, was appointed by minister of information and communication technology Emma Theofelus as of 1 December 2024.
“I am both honoured and fully aware of the responsibility that comes with this appointment. As a board, we have been entrusted with the task of supporting the NFC in becoming an autonomous body – a significant step for the industry and one that requires careful stewardship,” Beukes says.
The newly appointed NFC board includes Beukes, vice chairperson Reagan Malumo and commissioners Ronald James, Iyaloo Hamunyela and Ilalion Muha.
The board members hail from various industries, including film, tourism and media, with aptitude in international collaboration, innovative storytelling, policy development, strategic planning, media development and communications.
“The newly appointed NFC board represents a promising and diverse cohort, each bringing a wealth of experience and unique expertise to advance Namibia’s film industry,” says Beukes.
“While we will work to advance and complete key initiatives set in motion by our predecessors, we must also explore new ways to strengthen the infrastructure of our film sector,” she says.
“Achieving this will require collaboration and support from all industry stakeholders. If we succeed, we will not only fulfil this mandate but also contribute to a more resilient and self-sustaining film industry for the future.”
Beukes outlines the NFC’s key roles as industry advancement through film funding and skills development, the promotion of local film, marketing Namibia as a prime film destination on the global stage, as well as building relationships with international film entities to foster collaboration.
This year, the NFC will support the production of one feature-length film, five short films and one documentary.
Film-makers are encouraged to visit www.nfc.na or follow the NFC on social media for information on the commission’s initiatives and activities.
Reflecting on 2024, Beukes counts a number of notable achievements, including the NFC’s work on Kino Namibia, which trained 49 film-makers in basic film production in the Otjozondjupa region, culminating in the production of four short films currently available on YouTube.
Five new NFC web series, as well as Film Week’s 25 film screenings, its developmental talks and master class sessions were additional highlights.
The NFC also supported the premieres of NFC-funded films ‘Walvis Tale’ and ‘Last Summer’, as well as independent productions ‘Petrina’, ‘LIFE’, ‘Uno & Hatago’, ‘Ompata’ and ‘Skeleton Coast’.
“One of the biggest challenges our industry faces is distribution, which is why the Namflix initiative by One Africa stands out to me. More accessible platforms like this not only give film-makers greater visibility, but also allow us to collect valuable data on local audience trends,” Beukes says.
“This could make it easier for corporate Namibia to recognise the potential of our industry and collaborate meaningfully with local film-makers.”
Beukes additionally underscores that film industry growth is not only a cultural achievement but a significant economic opportunity.
“Film has the potential to create employment, showcase Namibian talent on a global stage and contribute to sectors such as tourism, advertising and technology.
“A collaborative approach can help build a more sustainable industry,” she says.
“By working together, we can create a thriving film sector that benefits both the creative economy and the broader Namibian business landscape.”
– [email protected]; Martha Mukaiwa on Twitter and Instagram; marthamukaiwa.com
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