22 January 2025
Kgotla Films’ Morwaake, a powerful drama exploring themes of family, resilience, and male mental health, has won the Best African Film at the prestigious 2024 Ekurhuleni International Film Festival (EIFF) in South Africa.
According to Kgotla Films director and producer, Lesedi Mpabanga, their production was chosen out of thousands of entries, adding that the award is a landmark moment for Botswana’s creative industry. He said this also showcased its capacity to deliver globally- resonant, high-quality films.
He explained that Morwaake was co-written by Calum Chisholm, Laone Mathule, and Leinatsele Kesenye, and directed by acclaimed UK filmmaker, Johnny Russell. The film stars Vuyisele Otukile as Tshepo, Boikhutso Molefhi as Kagiso, and Bonolo Moletsane as Vee, whose exceptional performances brought this heartfelt story to life. Mpabanga explained that the film reflected Kgotla Films’ unique production model, blending international expertise with local talent.
He said over 40 Batswana filmmakers worked alongside six UK volunteers, combining state-of-the-art equipment provided by Panavision South Africa with Botswana’s rich storytelling traditions.
“The team included Moitshepi Mokaila as head of costume and makeup and Flex The Ninja, who composed the original soundtrack, capturing the film’s emotional core.
This recognition is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together to tell our stories.
It is about empowering Batswana filmmakers, creating opportunities, and ensuring that Botswana’s voice is heard both on the continent and globally. I am so proud of the team, and I am excited about what this means for the future of our industry,” he said.
He further explained that Kgotla Films spent 85% of the film’s budget in Botswana, providing paid opportunities, hands-on training, and mentorship for local filmmakers. He added that the film’s production not only created an exceptional product but also contributed to the growth and sustainability of Botswana’s burgeoning film industry.
He said the film reflects Kgotla Films’ unique production model, blending international expertise with local talent.
“This award is not just a win for Morwaake; it is a win for Botswana. It demonstrates that local stories, when told with passion and authenticity, can resonate on a global scale.
We are incredibly proud to represent Botswana’s creativity and culture on such a prestigious platform. Winning at EIFF, one of South Africa’s largest film festivals, highlights Botswana’s potential as a major player in Africa’s creative boom,” said co-producer and writer, Chisholm.
He also pointed out that with global demand for African stories rising, that recognition served as a call to action for further investment and support to Botswana’s film industry. Chisholm further said Kgotla Films hoped the achievement would inspire others across the country to pursue their creative visions and share Botswana’s unique stories with the world.
Source: https://shorturl.at/JbuxW
