Reality shows the missing link in Zimbabwe

Reality television shows have become the in thing in most countries. From the United States to South Africa to Nigeria, the concept has been trending. Zim citizens have lamented the lack of local reality shows on national television.

Whilst people enjoy watching reality shows such as Keeping up with the Kardashians, Little women LA, Being Bonang and Big Brother Africa, there is no doubt that people would rather watch their own local shows.

Although efforts have been made to come up with shows such as ZWAGS which is based on Zimbabweans living in the diaspora, there is still a lot more that local producers can come up with. There clearly is a gap in the market and young producers ought to utilise that situation to their advantage.

Upcoming filmmakers can make a lot of money by introducing reality shows. Imagine how many shows can be done featuring celebrities, comedians, politicians and ordinary people.

Several shows however have come close to quenching viewers’ thirst for reality shows. One particular show by Tilder Moyo called Tilder live at Chikurubi has been aclaimed as one of the best and most watched shows in Zim. The overwhelming response is a clear indication that if someone were to come up with an array of reality shows in different genres, the audience would be huge.

Neighbouring countries such as South Africa have embraced this concept and produced shows such as Being Bonang, The roast of Somizi and Dineo’s diaries among others. These shows are centred around the day to day lifestyle of celebs and have made a huge impact in the film industry in South Africa.

Local content creators are strongly urged to invest into reality shows as they are more appealing to people than movies which are mainly based on fictitious events. While producers may argue funding constraints is a major hinderance, emulating the Nigerian industry which started small may be an immediate solution.