‘Step out,’ Nigerian movie star, Patience Ozokwor, urges Zambia film industry to take bold steps

Veteran Nigerian actress Patience Ozokwor has urged Zambia’s film industry to rely less on government support and instead take bold steps to grow the sector.

Speaking in Lusaka on Saturday following a collaboration between Kazadi Films and major African film industry players, the Nollywood star said Nigeria’s film industry grew through initiative and persistence rather than government support.

“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,” Ozokwor said.

She added that several countries have travelled to Nigeria to learn from Nollywood’s success, noting that Zambia could also chart its own path through collaboration and innovation.

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Ozokwor further challenged Zambian actors to rise to the occasion, emphasising that local creatives are best placed to tell authentic Zambian stories.

“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,” she said.

Meanwhile, Basali Media has partnered with regional filmmakers for the production of Family Affairs, a pan-African film involving Zambia, Nigeria and Kenya.

The collaboration has been welcomed by stakeholders, who say such partnerships are key to strengthening Zambia’s film industry and expanding its reach across the continent.

David Kazadi, CEO of Kazadi Films, described the partnership as a significant milestone for the local film industry.

“The collaboration is obviously huge for us and what a time to be Zambian,” Kazadi said.

Industry players say the initiative signals growing momentum in Zambia’s creative sector and could open doors for more cross-border productions and skills exchange across Africa.

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