DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA – The Tanzanian film industry, known colloquially as “Swahiliwood” or “Bongo Movies,” has been experiencing a renaissance, with several filmmakers making waves both locally and internationally.
Jigar Ganatra: Known for his work with AFRISOS (African School of Storytelling), Jigar has been pivotal in mentoring and developing local storytellers, with a focus on wildlife and ecological filmmaking.
His efforts have been highlighted in recent events like the Wildscreen Festival Tanzania, showcasing the rich potential of Tanzanian filmmakers in natural history storytelling.
Amil Shivji: His film “Vuta N’Kuvute” has gained international acclaim, premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2021.
This success has placed Shivji on the map as a director who can blend local stories with universal appeal, using a cinematic style inspired by global masters like Wong Kar Wai.
Angela and Alinda Ruhinda: The sisters behind Black Unicorn Studios have made history with their film “Binti,” which was the first Tanzanian film to be featured on Netflix.
Their work in highlighting the inner lives of African women has been praised for its authenticity and depth.
Lilian Anold: As a mentee of AFRISOS, Lilian has been making strides in documentary filmmaking, focusing on social issues and personal stories. Her recent projects have been in collaboration with international media like the BBC, showcasing Tanzanian talent on a global stage.
Erica and Eliya: Emerging talents in the industry, they are part of the new wave of filmmakers who are getting international exposure through events like the Wildscreen Festival.
Their work aims to shift perceptions of African storytelling by bringing authentic narratives to the forefront.
The Tanzanian film industry is not only gaining recognition for its storytelling but also for its potential economic impact, with filmmakers like these leading the charge.
