By: Staff Reporter
The Mpumalanga International Film Festival (MIFF) is rewriting the script for South Africa’s film industry, proving that world-class opportunities no longer require local artists to travel for opportunities. With over 1,200 jobs created in just two years, a new administrative hub for filmmakers, and 18 locally produced films selected and accepted for international festivals, MIFF is ensuring that Mpumalanga’s talent receives the recognition it deserves.
MIFF CEO Sifiso Nobela says the days of creatives fleeing the province due to a lack of resources and support are over.
“We’re putting all systems in place so that filmmakers, actors, and technicians no longer feel forced to relocate to Johannesburg or Cape Town,” said Nobela
“Our new office space, funding access, and training programs mean Mpumalanga creatives can now build their careers here, with global exposure.”
The Mpumalanga Film Festival’s initiative is offering, amongst other things, free mentorship and legal support for contracts and permits, access to high-end cinema cameras and editing suites, and distribution pathways to local and international markets.
“Why struggle in another city when you can grow your craft at home?
This year’s MIFF (3–10 August 2025) will showcase 56 films across Mbombela, Secunda, Witbank, and even the Kruger National Park as part of its WILDM Program. MIFF isn’t just about watching movies, it’s about creating livelihoods. When a filmmaker from Bushbuckridge gets their work seen in Paris or Toronto, that’s the future we’re crafting, ” Nobela emphasized.
Furthermore, MIFF has adopted other programms such as CoCinema which bring films to rural townships, educating youth on production while ensuring compliance with the Film and Publication Board (FPB), as well as Theatre Friday, which tackles social issues like GBV and drug abuse through performance, creating 68 jobs in the process.
“Government and private investors must see this as an economic lifeline. Every rand invested here means fewer artists leaving, more jobs, and a stronger creative economy.”Nobela said