By Chisomo Phiri
Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, through his Shepherd Bushiri Foundation, on Saturday donated K40 million to Film Association of Malawi (FAMA ),enabling the organization to enhance its operations and promote local filmmaking talent in the country.
Speaking during a ceremony in Lilongwe, Bushiri who is also the leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG), emphasized the importance of developing the film industry in shaping Malawi’s culture and showcasing its creative potential on the global stage.
“The art of storytelling is a powerful tool that can inspire, educate, and entertain.
“It is time for us to redefine the Malawian film industry and share our unique perspectives with the world,” said Bushiri.
He said Shepherd Bushiri Foundation will also sponsor the production of a feature film featuring local and international actors, as well as producers.
“This project follows an agreement signed last year with renowned Nigerian actor Nkem Owoh, popularly known as Osuofia,” added Bushiri .
On her part, FAMA President,Dorothy Kingston welcomed the sponsorship, describing it as a significant milestone for the association.
“This generous support will enable us to establish a formal office and enhance our daily operations, ultimately benefiting our members and the broader film community,” she said.
FAMA was established in the late 2011 with an ultimate goal of bringing together and coordinate persons and groups involved in the production and promotion of films in Malawi.
The Association has three structures namely: the General Assembly comprising the membership of the organization, the Executive comprises 10 positions derived from the core team responsible for the management of the organization and the board of trustees comprising five members.