UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

10/04/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/04/2021 00:55

New UNESCO publication highlights growth potential of Africa’s film industry

UNESCO will celebrate African cinema from 5 to 7 October with the launch of the publication The African Film Industry: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Growth.

On 5 October (3 pm to 3.50 pm,) UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, alongside distinguished film makers Abderrahmane Sissako and Mati Diop, will present The African Film Industry publication, the first ever complete mapping of the continent's film and audiovisual industries, which currently employs an estimated 5 million people and accounts for $5 billion in GDP across Africa. The publication contains strategic recommendations to help the sector achieve its estimated potential to create over 20 million jobs and contribute $20 billion to the continent's combined GDP.

The report argues that this potential remains largely untapped despite the significant growth in production across the continent, where Nigeria, for example, produces around 2,500 films a year. While affordable digital film equipment and new online platforms that allow for direct distribution to consumers have given birth to a new economy for content creators, the report finds that Africa only has one cinema screen per 787,402 people, making it the most underserved continent in terms of movie theatres.

Piracy is another significant problem for the industry and although precise data does not exist, the report estimates that piracy waylays 50% to over 75% of the film and audiovisual industries' revenue. The report furthermore highlights the fact that only 19 African countries out of 54 (35%) offer financial support to filmmakers.

The study also identifies persistent challenges affecting the industry, notably freedom of expression as industry professions in 47 countries report limitations on the issues that are able to handle in their creative work. Education, training and internet connectivity are also affecting the African film and audiovisual industries.

The publication is designed to help the film industry and decision-makers take stock of the present landscape and plan strategically for future growth.