Africa-Press – Eswatini. The past twoyears have seen a significant migration of talented actors from Eswatini to SA in pursuit of broader opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Such talent who has migrated includes Sithembiso Kunene, a talent that first made international tv appearances on SA’s Gomora and now is an ambassador of OpenView. eTV’s ‘Isitha’, a series with close to a million followers currently, has three local talents such as well-known comedian Gedlembane. The latest successful move was that of Welile Nxumalo, a seasoned scriptwriter, who has been part of the writing for a popular Mzansi Magic series, Sibongile and The Dlaminis.
This trend has raised concerns about the impact on Eswatini’s local film and television industry, prompting a call to action for the Eswatini National Film and Television Association (ENFTVA) to address this issue.According to recent statistics, approximately 70 per cent of Eswatini’s professional actors and film-makers have relocated to SA in the past five years, seeking better prospects, higher exposure, and increased recognition. This exodus has not only depleted the local talent pool, but has also led to a loss of indigenous storytelling and cultural representation in the global media landscape.
The great need for indigenous storytelling and sharing local content was at a high because of the niche in the market.This concern for the need was raised during the recent visit by the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, at the National Council of Arts and Culture in Manzini. The need was also met with challenges of the sector lacking proper funding in order to curate films from scratch. The Eswatini Film and Television Association is now at a critical juncture, faced with the imperative to stem this talent drain and revitalise the local entertainment industry.
One of the key strategies to counter this migration is to create an environment that fosters growth, recognition, and sustainability for local actors and content creators. This can be achieved through the following initiatives:Talent development programs: The association can establish comprehensive talent development programs, including acting workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events to nurture emerging actors and provide them with the skills and support needed to thrive in the industry.
Production incentives: Introducing production incentives and funding schemes for locally produced films and television shows can incentivise the creation of high-quality, compelling content that resonates with both local and international audiences. Industry collaboration: Fostering partnerships with Eswatini’s educational institutions, cultural organisations, and international film bodies can create a robust ecosystem that supports the growth of the local entertainment industry and encourages the retention of talent within the country.
Promotion of indigenous stories: Embracing and promoting indigenous storytelling and narratives can position Eswatini as a unique and valuable contributor to the global entertainment landscape, attracting both local and international interest in Eswatini’s rich cultural heritage.By implementing these proactive measures, the Eswatini Film and Television Association can lay the foundation for a vibrant and sustainable local entertainment industry, providing compelling opportunities for actors and content creators to thrive within their own country.
This, in turn, will contribute to the preservation and celebration of Eswatini’s cultural identity, while fostering a thriving creative economy.
The time to act is now, as the association seeks to reclaim and nurture the wealth of talent within Eswatini’s borders, ensuring that the nation’s storytellers continue to shine on both local and international stages.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
