Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus has announced new projects to support local films and create jobs. 

The government is boosting the local film industry, with the sector showing strong potential after having long been overlooked. 

The government aims to position Namibia as a centre for local content creation. 

It's part of broader plans to grow the creative industries, drive economic growth and create jobs.

The industry has already shown economic benefits. 

In the 2018/2019 Financial Year, foreign film permits created employment for 803 Namibians. 

Projects supported by the Namibia Film Commission created jobs for 69 Namibians. 

These projects also trained 12 aspiring filmmakers.

Another project is the planned Namibia Film and Creative City. 

Once fully operational, that initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs and generate about N$173 million in annual economic activity.

For the 2025/2026 period, the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) approved 20 local and international projects. 

These are projected to create temporary jobs for about 263 young people.

Theofelus announced efforts to strengthen industry support systems.

"In addition, through the Namibian Film Commission (NFC), in partnership with the Creative Industries Institute Africa, we launched a props and costumes warehouse in Windhoek. Funding was availed for the acquisition of some props. We also donated the wardrobe collection from the liberation film Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation to this important props warehouse."

The government says culture and creative industries need focused investment. Skills development and access to facilities are key to helping creators benefit from their talents and ideas.