By Andrew Kathindi

Copyright namibian

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has launched an expression of interest to develop a world-class film and creative city, set to be developed as a special economic zone (SEZ).

The president said that once developed, preliminary estimates show the film city could generate N$173 million (U$10 million) in annual economic activity and create thousands of jobs.

“With a broader mandate covering both film and wider creative industries, Namibia’s project can capture significant financial benefits while diversifying into music, fashion, arts design and other creative economic activities,” she said.

Nandi-Ndaitwah made the announcement on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Monday, where she also met Hollywood actor Eric Roberts.

The government is currently seeking developers to plan, establish and manage the film city.

“It will play a critical role in nurturing the next generation of Namibian creative talent, while also hosting cultural heritage villages, research and development centres and dedicated creative spaces for innovation and collaboration,” said the president.

The film city is part of the government’s plans to bolster the creative industries to drive economic growth and employment creation.

She highlighted Namibia as a sought-after location for blockbuster movies like ‘The Mummy’, ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ and ‘Flight of the Phoenix’, stating that Namibia should ensure it tells its own stories.

Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board spokesperson Catherine Shipushu said that to inspire investor confidence and project viability, the government will provide robust policy and fiscal incentives, including secure land allocation within a special economic zone, fast-tracked permits, visas and one-stop investor services.

“Central to this is positioning Namibia as a leading creative hub in Africa, an authentic destination where local, African and global stories come to life,” Shipushu said.

The film city will provide state-of-the-art film production facilities and talent casting agencies as well as accommodation and hospitality services.

The government also wants the planned film city to offer world-class infrastructure, robust platforms for skills development, internships and on-the-job learning, ensuring a pipeline of Namibian creative talent.

“The project is expected to boost tourism by stimulating both leisure and business tourism, while increasing the export potential of Namibia’s creative content. The focus will be directed toward key sub-sectors, including fashion design, music and performing arts, filmmaking, as well as technology and innovation, among others,” Shipishu said.