Namibia allocates N$17.5m to boost creative industries and jobs

The Namibian government has launched a N$17.5 million Local Content Plan designed to create approximately 470 direct jobs within the nation’s film and television industry. This initiative is part of a larger N$50 million government allocation dedicated to creative industries programmes.

The funding will support several key projects, including the production of a national soap opera (N$8.64 million), two limited television series (N$3.38 million), and 14 regional short films (N$3.5 million). Additionally, N$1.73 million is earmarked for an equipment access and management programme, with N$250,000 allocated for administration and marketing.

Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture Sanet Steenkamp stated that the goal is to build a sustainable creative ecosystem. The investment aims to provide opportunities for various professionals, including writers, actors, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors, and sound technicians, while fostering skill development and business growth across all 14 regions.