The role of Zanzibar international film festival (ZIFF) in the development of the Tanzanian film industry

Film festivals are integral in film industry as arenas for production, exhibition and distribution of films. Currently they have become places where filmmaking skills are imparted to filmmakers and forums for discussion on issues facing the industry. Some film festivals engage in organizing and financing productions and at times arranging co-production fora. In East Africa, the only vibrant film festival that has earned popularity is Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) which has been holding festivals for the past sixteen years, and it is the oldest film festival. This study is an exploration of ZIFF‟s role in the development of the Tanzanian Film Industry. This study employed ethnographic investigation as a method of gathering information. This included the use of interviews, observation and archival research. The investigation revealed that although ZIFF promotes Tanzanian films by providing platforms for networking, marketing and training for filmmakers, through workshops, it has yet to have a sound impact in the Tanzanian video film industry. In addition, the festival has not succeeded in distributing and financing video film productions, though some prospects are evident especially in the distribution arena. The study revealed that ZIFF, if well utilized and tailored, has the potential of playing a bigger role in the development of the local film industry. The study recommends that in order for the Tanzanian filmmakers to improve the quality of their work and expansion of their market, they must utilize ZIFF as a forum for networking, promoting, and enhancing their skills in filmmaking. It is also recommended that the government of The United Republic of Tanzania through the Ministry of Information and Culture and National Arts Council should use ZIFF to promote Tanzanian films. Lastly, ZIFF should increase its efforts in persuading Tanzanian filmmakers to participate in the festival and tailor their programmes so as to increase the involvement of ZIFF in the local film industry.