Namibia's National Content Creation Plan is set to transform the country's creative industry by prioritising local storytelling, job creation, and sustainable growth as key pillars of its cultural agenda.

This vision was emphasised during discussions involving the Filmmakers Association of Namibia (FAN), the Namibian Film Commission (NFC), and the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). 

The stakeholders are working together to develop a sustainable business model that supports and benefits Namibia's creative community.

The creative industry received N$50 million in funding, with N$17.5 million already allocated to kickstart the content creation plan.

Developed by FAN together with the NFC, the priorities of this programme are to create Namibian content, get Namibian stories on screens, and excite audiences to hear their own languages.

The initiative further aims not only to entertain but also to generate employment across multiple creative sectors, from actors and camera crews to makeup artists and sound technicians.

"The film industry is actually a vehicle that employs multiple people. In the multiple creative industries, you've got your makeup artists, you've got your artisans, you've got your sound people, you've got your camera department, and you've got your actors. So it really is an avenue in which we can stimulate the cultural and creative industries, specifically through this programme," said Esther Beukes, the Chairperson of the NFC.

NBC's Director General, Menesia Muinjo, described the collaboration as a historical moment for content development.

Supporting the plan, she said, NBC provides platforms for local storytellers across television, radio and digital media. 

Producing content in indigenous languages is also a priority, unlocking untapped opportunities to engage local audiences and present Namibian stories internationally.

"We are also considering the potential of producing a soap opera or drama in indigenous languages, as this represents an untapped area that merits our attention and investment. This approach will enable various audiences to follow, listen to, or view programmes in the languages of their choice, thereby enhancing their understanding of the subject matter. Furthermore, this content is not solely intended for local audiences; it will also be disseminated globally, showcasing the unique aspects of Namibia in the realm of content creation."

Byron Joseph, Chairperson of FAN, praised the government's commitment to the creative industry.

With the National Content Creation Plan, this initiative is a step to elevate the country's creative industries, putting local stories at the centre while fostering economic growth and international recognition.