Mabvuku-Tafara was once considered the hub for film, theatre, and television in Zimbabwe. The neighbourhood was a breeding ground for talent that produced some of the greatest film and theatre stars. However, the lack of infrastructure and financial support has left the local industry struggling for years to thrive. 

By Plot Mhako

The neighbourhood was officially established in the 1950s as a segregated township for black residents during the colonial period. It was named after two prominent chiefs, Mabvuku and Tafara. The area has people with diverse national backgrounds (mainly Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia) who give it unique cultural practices that add to its beauty. These include traditional dances, songs, and clothing, that reflect social norms and values.

Mabvuku-Tafara: a Haven for Movie and Theatre Enthusiasts

History

Mabvuku-Tafara’s film and theatre scene dates back to the 70s before the country gained independence from Britain. After independence it was a time of cultural renaissance that gave birth to some of the best drama groups that Zimbabwe has ever seen.

The Mabvuku-Tafara film community groomed or had an impact on celebrated actors such as John Chinosiyani, aka Mhekiya, Ben Sibenke aka Shereni, Peter Kampira, Dread Welly, Kizito Gamaliel, Lazarus Boora aka Gringo, Mackey ‘Sakamuzi’ Tickeys, Simon Shumba aka Mutirowafanza, Philip Gadzikwa Mushangwe aka Parraffin, Nevernay Chinyanga known as Muvengwa, Stewart Kakarombe and many others. Most of these actors were products of drama groups such as Yamaguchi who went around the country entertaining communities and schools for a living.

The multicultural neighbourhood has produced some of the biggest film and theatre stars in Zimbabwe. 

At the centre of the development of theatre and film in Mabvuku-Tafara was a former Tafara ! Primary school headmaster Ben Sibenke who is a playwright and actor known for his role in the first Zimbabwean soapie drama, Studio 263 where he played the character Shereni. In his hand passed through some of the legendary actors Zimbabwe has ever produced. Many renowned actors past and living acknowledged Sibenke as the man who groomed them. 

“My Primary School Headmaster. Mr Sibenke was The first person to groom me about Confidence, Public Speaking and Voice Projection. He believed in me even though I was always stammering” Jackie Ngarande, Social Influencer / Model. 

“Sibenke was my primary school headmaster, and the first to groom my public speaking skills. Forever grateful” Chenny Chenny

The Struggle for Growth of the Mabvuku-Tafara Film community

Despite being a hub for talented actors and playwrights, Mabvuku-Tafara’s film and theatre community has faced significant challenges due to a lack of infrastructure and funding. The scene has struggled to grow and compete on a larger scale, resulting in a decline in production quality and quantity.

Challenges Faced by the Film community in Mabvuku-Tafara

Infrastructure

The lack of a film or theatre  school, film studios and cinemas in the area has challenged the growth of the industry.

Community centers that were initially used for practice by artists have since become white elephants or occupied by churches. 

Funding

Without financial support from the government and private investors, the industry struggles to finance film productions and cover other expenses.

Distribution

There is no clear distribution strategy for film in Zimbabwe which also leaves Mabvuku-Tafara filmmakers struggling to get their work seen by a wider audience.

Four decades of ZBC TV’s airwaves monopoly stood in the way of film and TV development in the county”

The Impact of Mabvuku-Tafara’s Film scene in Zimbabwe

The decline of the film and theatre industry in Mabvuku-Tafara has had a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage. The neighbourhood was once considered a beacon of creativity and talent, but now it suffers due to the lack of infrastructure and funding. Without a vibrant and growing film industry, Zimbabwe risks losing a vital part of its cultural identity.

Possible Solutions for Supporting Growth

Investment in Film Schools

Government and private sectors should invest in educational institutions that offer courses and training in film production, management, marketing, and other related skills.

Funding Support

The government and private sectors should offer funding for film productions, marketing, and other related expenses.

Distribution Channels

Create distribution channels that make it easier for Mabvuku-Tafara’s filmmakers to reach a wider audience and showcase their work.

Mabvuku-Tafara’s film and theatre industry has a rich history and is home to some of the most talented actors and playwrights in Zimbabwe, but the lack of infrastructure and funding has left the industry struggling to grow. If we invest in the growth of the industry, we can help preserve Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and provide opportunities for future generations.