Page 6 - KZN Film A Report

Foreword by the MEC
Economic Development,
Tourism and Environmental Affairs
The 2020/2021 financial year was a rather difficult year for the media and entertainment sector as the country was under various levels of lockdown. As such, the film sector had limited abilities to operate at optimal levels. At level 1-2 of the lockdown, additional funding had to be set aside for the funded projects going into production to ensure that they complied with COVID-19 protocols introduced into the industry. This was at a time when funds were also needed by the State to support essential services to fight the pandemic resulting in significant budget cuts.
MR RR PILLAY, MPL
MEC: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs
The COVID-19 pandemic had an adverse impact on world industries. In the film sector, the pandemic has accelerated consumers’ willingness to experiment with their entertainment options. With technology helping to fuel new service offerings, the traditional options and consumer content platforms are gradually changing resulting in a review of the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission (KZNFC) approach and strategies going forward including focusing on industry scarce skills programmes to ensure that our local industry remains internationally competitive and relevant.
In the 2020/2021 financial year, noticeable progress was achieved with regards to the merger of KZNFC and KZN Tourism with a draft Bill being developed for the new entity. We are targeting to conclude this process in the 2021/2022 financial year. The new Entity is expected to perform the same functions and continue with the current mandate of both entities in a cost-effective business operation.
Despite the challenges of 2020/2021, KZNFC has delivered exceptional services and has continued operations throughout the year while adopting its business practices and
level of engagement with its stakeholders. I am particularly proud of the achievements contained in this annual report with specific reference to the COVID Relief Fund that was established through the reprioritisation of funding which assisted six slate film projects and assisted some production projects through providing a budget for COVID-19 personal protective equipment (PPE’s). Over one hundred and eighty- seven temporary jobs were created in the sector.
Lastly, I would like to convey my sincere gratitude to the Board and the KZNFC’s team for their support and commitment to growing a sustainable and transformed KZN Film Industry.
Mr RR Pillay, MPL
MEC: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs
Date: 17 August 2021
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KZN FILM COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT 2020/2021