Opinion By Nico Abote | ‘Afrofuturism‘ was truly defined at the 2025 National Arts Merit Awards (NAMAs), which delivered a defining moment for Zimbabwean cinema through Skhanyiso Ngwenya, also known as Ska, who became the youngest-ever recorded winner of the Outstanding Actor award in NAMA’s history. Ska’s rise from Chinotimba in Victoria Falls to national recognition is not just a win for him as an individual but a victory for the entire Zimbabwean film industry, proving that new talent can emerge and thrive when given the right platform.
His performance in Rise, a film that also stars Zimbabwean international Hollywood actor Tongai Chirisa, is in a 25-minute short film that vividly portrays its setting through powerful visuals, enhancing viewers’ understanding of the storyline. The film was directed by Jessica Rowlands and produced by Joe Njagu, and is based on Tobius Mupfuti’s true story, speaking volumes about the huge desire to collaborate and the clear opportunity for the Zim-film market to reemerge stronger. With productions like this, backed by dedicated filmmakers and passionate creatives, it is evident that Zimbabwean film is ready for the global stage. Rise is a true reflection of resilience, talent, and the deep belief in storytelling as a way of capturing the nation’s essence.
From Rise’s location choice and film setting, more can be said about the vast opportunities that await across the country. We do have a passionate industry in waiting, and this win by Ska speaks volumes beyond the potential. It is about time the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) took the leading role as it implements the set strategy.
At the NAMA23 awards, NACZ Chairperson Dr. Jacqueline Nozipo Maraire shared on something that many in the creative sector strongly related to: “The future of Africa is in the creatives.” This statement aligns with the Film & Television Strategy 2025-2030, which emphasizes the need to establish Zimbabwe as a regional and global player in film and television. The strategy lays out key pillars, including infrastructure development, funding mechanisms, and international collaborations, all essential for elevating Zimbabwean film.
“We have a path and a way forward to restore Zimbabwe as the powerhouse of film it once was,” she added.
Her words give power to what was and what could potentially become the next major film hub for Southern Africa. We still have incredible locations, highly creative crews, and a growing, ambitious pool of talent. Many world-class films were produced in Zimbabwe, including A Far Off Place, King Solomon’s Mines, A World Apart, and Cry Freedom, among many others. These productions set the stage for what later became the thriving South African film industry after the apartheid era. This shift drew much of Zimbabwe’s talent across its borders, ultimately leading to the decline of our own film community in the late ’90s due to brain drain. As international focus shifted to Mandela’s fortress, with a more open creative direction strongly supported by the government, it also attracted much-needed investment to advance the sector.
Zimbabwe has long been a powerhouse in the arts, and as Dr. Maraire noted, the country is “way ahead of the game in the ecosystem of the arts.” However, for this industry to thrive, investment and strategic support are essential. The NAC’s commitment to revamping communication platforms and enhancing program delivery is a step in the right direction. Additionally, the decision to rotate production companies for the NAMAs moving forward will ensure diversity and bring fresh perspectives to how the industry is celebrated.
Film is more than just entertainment, it is a record of history, a medium of education, and a cultural asset that must be nurtured. Ska’s win is proof that Zimbabwean talent is ready to take on the world, and with the right infrastructure and support, we can see more actors, directors, and production teams breaking into the international space.
“The Film Strategy is locally anchored and internationally connected. It enables Zimbabwe to tell her own story to the entire world through film and tap into the multibillion-dollar potential of this industry,” said Hon. K. Coventry, the Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
For Zimbabwe to reclaim its place as a cinematic powerhouse, the government and private sector must recognize film’s economic and cultural value. The Film & Television Strategy 2025-2030 presents a roadmap, but its success hinges on execution and industry-wide collaboration.
More strong declarations and positive affirmations were shared by the NAC executive director saying,
“The time for an integrated and focused approach to film policy and development is now; judgments and actions taken now are likely to set the course for the Zimbabwean film industry for the next 10-20 years. It is the intention that the strategy and its recommendations will lead to a sustainable, innovative, and vibrant film sector that enhances the cultural, social, and economic development potential of the country and its regions. It is time for the Zimbabwean story be heard! #Hande,” emphasized NAC CEO, Mr. Napoleon Nyanhi.
To the creatives out there, from my heart, always remember that your work is shaping Zimbabwe’s story. No matter how small, the world needs to hear it from us more. To the policymakers, investing in film is investing in the nation’s future. To the fans, keep supporting Zimbabwean cinema, because our stories deserve to be told on the grandest of stages.
Well done to Ska, the Rise production team, and all the creatives pushing boundaries. The future of Zimbabwean film is bright, it is up to us to keep the cameras rolling!
Nico Abote is a seasoned media professional with over 20 years in TV and film, leading Abote Media Consultancy while producing high-quality content across Africa, the USA, and Canada. He co-founded Play Afrika TV, a VOD platform for African creatives to amplify positive African stories. He has driven innovative studio development and content strategies in Zimbabwe & Canada. A board member of Chengeto Africa, Zimbabwe Fashion Week, Hunhu Creative Council, and Black Star International Film Festival (Ghana), and an active member of CSIF and IATSE Local 212 (Alberta), Nico is passionate about storytelling for social change. He has produced impactful documentaries like Daughters of Legends and was EPK Producer for the award-winning film Jasmine Road ( Canada 2019). Currently directing Dance Matchmaker, a reality TV series for Canadian mainstream television, he continues to champion African narratives globally. Off-screen, he enjoys golf and cheering for Dynamos FC & Arsenal FC.
