Filmmakers association launches membership drive to strengthen creative industries

With a large youth population and untapped creative infrastructure, filmmakers in Omaheke are set to benefit from the Filmmakers Association of Namibia’s (FAN) renewed regional outreach.

This week, FAN confirmed Metumo Akwaake as the region’s new representative.

FAN chairperson Byron Gerome Joseph was in Gobabis this week, during which he met with regional film practitioners and FAN representatives.

The visits coincided with the official trip of deputy minister of arts and culture Dino Ballotti, underscoring the importance of aligning regional creative activity with national policy priorities.

During the visit, FAN confirmed Metumo Akwaake as its regional representative for Omaheke, supported by Moses Mberira, an industry veteran who will serve in an advisory and mentorship capacity.

“These engagements form part of FAN’s broader 2026 membership drive, which is focused on reconnecting with regions, strengthening representation and translating policy commitments into tangible opportunities on the ground,” Joseph said.

Common issues, opportunities 

Discussions highlighted challenges and opportunities common across many regions, including a large youth population, rich local stories and existing but underutilised infrastructure such as innovation hubs and regional offices.

“What we are seeing in Omaheke is not unique,” Joseph noted.

“Across the country, the people are there, the stories are there, and in many cases the infrastructure already exists. The task ahead is coordinated activation and sustained support."

FAN stressed that the engagements in Omaheke should be seen as a starting point for similar regional outreach efforts planned throughout the year.

The association plans to use its membership drive to map practitioners, identify skills and facilities and collaborate with government and stakeholders to support decentralised creative and cultural industry development that fosters youth empowerment and economic participation.