Story by Farai Gwaze
ZIMBABWE’s multi-award-winning short film Rise has added to its growing list of international accolades after securing two major honours at the Regal Film Festival Awards (REFFA), held in Accra, Ghana, over the weekend.
The recognition marks another milestone in the film’s remarkable global journey, which has included making history as the first Zimbabwean production to qualify for Oscar consideration.
At the ceremony, producer Joe Njagu accepted the Best Short Film award, paying tribute to the awards organisers and dedicating the honour to the entire team behind the project.“On behalf of the entire Rise team, I would like to thank REFFA, madame Selasi, for your amazing vision and for honouring our little film from Zimbabwe with a big heart. Thank you so much and to God be the glory,” he said.
The film’s young lead, Sikhanyiso Ngwenya, who earlier this year became the youngest-ever NAMA award winner, secured the Best Young Actor prize at the awards.
“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for the award and for recognising Zimbabwe. Thank you, team Rise. Well done, Africa,” he added.
The continued continental acclaim for ‘Rise,’ which has now won a total of 18 international awards, solidifies Zimbabwe’s growing reputation as a hub for powerful storytelling and cinematic excellence.
This showcases the vibrant potential of the local creative industry under the Second Republic’s cultural development agenda.
