Page 6 - KZN Film Annual Report 2023/2024

KWAZULU-NATAL FILM COMMISSION
Foreword by the MEC
Economic Development,
Tourism and Environmental Affairs
HON. REV. M. ZONDI, MPL
MEC: Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs
In the 2023-24 financial year, it was announced that the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission (KZNFC) would cease to exist, as it would merge with Tourism KwaZulu-Natal in the
first quarter of the 2024-25 financial year. This merger is part of a deliberate effort by the legislature to streamline public entities in the province and enhance efficiency. The legal successor of the two entities, the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority will be responsible for carrying out the province’s film and tourism mandates.
During the 2023-24 financial year, the KZNFilm focused on several strategic priorities, including skills development, increasing local audiences, promoting isiZulu and heritage projects, and forming strategic partnerships. The entity collaborated with key stakeholders to implement film- related programs aimed at enabling local filmmakers to compete globally. Additionally, KZNFilm organized audience engagement sessions across the province to develop local audiences in line with the District Development Model. Projects focused on isiZulu and heritage were identified as part of the entity’s Made for TV programs and received support to be finalized and broadcast. The KZNFilm also enriched its training programs through partnerships with MICSETA and local tertiary institutions.
In the 2023-24 financial year, the local film industry faced various challenges as it emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges included disruptions caused by load shedding and the 2023 Hollywood actors and writers strike. As a result, the industry experienced significant impacts, leading to announcements of job cuts and the closure of some screens by Ster Kinekor. The province has been working to provide support to the industry to ensure
its sustainability. The film industry is a critical pillar and a catalyst for economic growth, and it must be supported by all means.
The collaboration with television channels has led to a number of productions funded by KZNFilm, finding platforms for screening. Indeed a flourishing film and television industry will contribute to cross-industry and economic opportunities, particularly by offering emerging filmmakers the chance to showcase their work and establish themselves in the industry.
As the sixth administration comes to an end in 2024 and this report marks the final Annual Report for the KwaZulu- Natal Film Commission, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for the support and hard work demonstrated by all stakeholders, the Board, KZNFC staff, and EDTEA staff. I have reviewed the ten-year progress report of KZNFilm (2013 to 2023) and I am encouraged by the progress made by the local film industry since the establishment of KZN Film Commission in 2013. I believe this progress will continue to drive the local film industry to even greater success, under the new entity KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Fim Authority.
.....................................
HON REV. MUSA ZONDI (MPL)
MEC: Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs
DATE 30 July 2024
ANNUAL REPORT 2023/2024
4