Gorillas in the Mist, Out of Africa, Black Hawk Down, The Constant Gardener, Hotel Rwanda, and The Last King of Scotland are all Feature Films that were shot in Africa. The list is greater then the six I mentioned, nonetheless I find it to be remarkably low, especially when you compare it to the other continents. There are 53 countries in Africa and it holds some of the worlds most beautiful City's, Mountains, Beaches, and Forests just to name a few, however it's always the same 3 that get all the lime light(in Africa) when it comes to production companies choosing their next film location. Take for example Hotel Rwanda which is specific to the country but was shot mostly in South Africa with a few scenes' shot in Kigali the capital of Rwanda. Are you telling me that Rwanda was not ready or qualified to accommodate a film set. If this is the case then what is the government doing about it, or individuals who are in the position to create these business. Do they not see that this can be a great way to train, educate, and develop new skills that can be useful anywhere. They are losing big money and great opportunities every time Kenya, Morocco, or South African wins the bid. Now don't think I am against those three that are enhancing what they already have, in fact the other countries can learn a thing or two from them, all I'm saying is that Africa as a whole can be a vital industry for international film locations.
The governments need to deliberately target developing a film industry, for that matter alone there would be revenue for the country and it would create jobs for the locals; which would benefit the economy, attract tourism , and other companies will be interested in exotic locations for their on site productions in non-film related areas such as Victoria Secret or Sports Illustrated.
We have the right stuff now it's about getting the right people to lead the way.
What if there was a company dedicated to creating and enhancing this industry within Africa? North American and European markets can benefit from a wide range of options when it comes to shooting their productions and African countries can benefit from a booming new industry..
The countdown is starting, and all of you will be able to witness it. I will keep you updated
