The Tanzania Film Federation has at last unveiled names of various film awards after a hectic job since launching the event in November last year.
The federation and other stakeholders in the Tanzania film awards were full of excitement yesterday for what they have achieved up to date.
The films which are under the film federation are the highest awards in the film industry. They have been well received and so many movies were submitted.
A panel of judges have now nominated those that will join the second stage where by the general public will be able to vote and finally another panel of judges from the East Africa Film Network (of which Tanzania is a member) will critically look at the movies and come up with deserved winners. The voting will contribute a percentage in the overall winner.
There will be twelve categories and each will have from five to eight nominees. Speaking at the press conference yesterday, the Tanzania chief film judge, Issa Mbura who is also assistant lecture at the University of Dar es Salaam, said the selection of the films was based on watching them, scrutinising and critically looking at the themes and the way the stories were brought out in each movie.
Issa was keen to point to all filmmakers, actors and actresses to be proud of their work as it was very clear there is so much growth in the industry as contrasted to previous years.
“I would also like to thank the organisers for giving me the opportunity to be a top judge. For trusting me on this task. Our aim was to have at least 24 categories but due to submissions for this year we will have only twelve.”
“This year’s awards are best in feature film, director, actor (in leading role), actor (in supporting role), actress (in leading role), actress (in supporting role), comedian (male/female), screenplay, producer, subtitles, sound, life time achievement and tribute award” ,concluded Mbura.
On behalf of the Tanzania Film Federation, the president Simon Mwakifwamba thanked judges, the film board for the incredible job and now leaving it to the public to vote.
He said, “together with the judges I want to thank the organising committee especially the chairperson Caroline Gul for the incredible job. They have worked tirelessly to make sure that the awards will be conducted at a very high level. “I call all Tanzanians to continue supporting us and as well make sure they vote for their favorite movies, actors and actresses”.
“I wish also to sincerely thank our partners, EATV and EAR, Push mobile, Pinetech, TCRA and Eye hospital. As well I wish to thank the film board and in general the government of Tanzania for their support in advising and making sure we deliver the best”, added Mwakifwamba.
However, he urged other companies, well-wishers and all stakeholders in the movie industry to sponsor the awards. The awards are a great opportunity for them to market their products and services. The awards will take place on the May 23rd at Nyerere Convention Center at the heart of the city of Dar Es Salaam.
SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN
