Story by Patience Nyagato
ZIMBABWE’S content creators are moving to formalise their sector and position themselves as key drivers of national development, amid growing recognition of the creative industry’s economic and cultural influence.
The push for professionalisation, improved training, protection against exploitation and fair business practices dominated discussions at a content creators’ stakeholders meeting held in Harare this Wednesday.
Board Chairperson of the Content Creators Association of Zimbabwe (COCAZ), Victor Mpofu, said the sector must organise and establish standards to unlock its full potential.
“Before creators are positioned by others, we must define ourselves. We organise, we move with one united voice, and we establish a central coordinated hub for creators and custodians not just of cultural expression, but also policy advocacy for the creative digital economy.
“This includes professionalisation, training, protection against exploitation, fair payments, and contractual standards. Our role is to ensure creators contribute meaningfully to the economy and are recognised as key contributors to national development,” Mpofu said.
The national broadcaster is also stepping up efforts to support the sector through funding, platform access and partnerships aimed at strengthening the creative economy.
ZBC Chief Executive Officer Mr Sugar Chagonda emphasised the importance of collaboration between the broadcaster and content creators.
“It would be a misstep to discuss the mandate of ZBC without mentioning content creators. We are here to educate, inform, and entertain, and that requires working closely with creators. ZBC is accessible both in our people and our functions and is committed to funding, co-producing, and providing platforms for quality content. Our budget allocation includes dedicated funds for content creation, enabling creators to deliver professional, innovative, and impactful programming across television, radio, and digital platforms,” he said.
Government has also recognised content creators as critical economic players capable of driving growth, employment and Zimbabwe’s global image.
Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Emily Jesaya, highlighted the sector’s contribution to economic transformation.
“Content creators are critical economic actors. You are not just custodians of heritage, you are facilitators of an industry that holds the key to economic transformation. Your creativity shapes Zimbabwe’s international image and contributes to job creation, economic growth, and a knowledge-based economy. Government values you as partners, not to control, but to work with you in building a structured, registered, and sustainable sector,” she said.
The engagement comes as ZBC committed US$10 million towards supporting local content, a move expected to empower independent creators while enhancing the quality and reach of Zimbabwean programming.
The initiative marks a significant step towards building a structured, sustainable and economically impactful content creation industry aligned with national development priorities.
