By Francis Chipalo
Veteran Nigerian actress Patience Ozokwor, alias Mama G, has challenged Zambian actors to rise to the occasion, saying no one can tell Zambia’s stories better than Zambians themselves.
“I love challenges and would like actors in Zambia to challenge me. Nobody can tell our stories for us but ourselves and it makes sense,” Ozokwor said.
She was speaking following a collaboration between Zambian production house Kazadi Films and major names in the African movie industry. Basali Media have joined hands for the production of _Family Affairs_ — a pan-African movie involving three countries: Zambia, Nigeria and Kenya.
The move has been hailed by stakeholders, with calls for more such partnerships to enhance the local movie industry.
Asked to describe the Zambian movie industry and what Zambia needs to do to reach Nollywood’s level, Ozokwor urged the Zambian movie industry to depend less on government, but rise to the challenge.
“We didn’t wait for government to move but we acted and government moved in later. You can’t stay in the house and make a name. Step out there,” she said.
Ozokwor added that some countries came to Nigeria to learn, and Zambia can do the same.
Kazadi Films described the collaboration as a major milestone. “The collaboration is obviously huge for us and what a time to be Zambian,” CEO David Kazadi added.
