Stephen Mutsago Brings Zimbabwean History to the Big Screen
Renowned filmmaker and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer Stephen Mutsago is set to redefine Zimbabwe’s film industry with his forthcoming movie exploring the ancient Munhumutapa Empire and its ties to the modern era. The movie, which Mutsago is both producing and directing, is expected to premiere early next year.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film features an impressive lineup of Zimbabwean celebrities, including former soccer players Alois Bunjira and Tinashe Nengomasha, alongside renowned artists Charles Mzembi and Freddy Manjalima, popularly known as Kapfupi.
Mutsago, stationed in Mutare, explained that his inspiration stems from the need to educate and inspire Zimbabweans about their heritage.
“As a filmmaker, I felt guilty for not doing justice to our people’s story. I was inspired by the ignorance about our identity and the lack of appreciation for our culture compared to other nations like India, the US, China, and Korea,” he said.
Reviving Cultural Pride
The film seeks to bridge gaps in cultural knowledge, aiming to rekindle pride in Zimbabwe’s rich history. Mutsago said, “Our generation and the generations that follow should have access to a piece that evokes memories of Zimbabwe’s history and culture while keeping up with modern technological advancements.”
The story begins in Guruuswa, the birthplace of Great Zimbabwe, and chronicles the journey of Nyatsimba Mutota as he establishes the Mutapa State in Dande. By highlighting the victories of the Munhumutapa kings, the film aims to instill a sense of unity, identity, and pride in Zimbabweans.
Linking the Past and Present
Mutsago emphasized the parallels between the ancient empire and modern Zimbabwe under President Emmerson Mnangagwa. “President Mnangagwa embodies the spirit of our great Munhumutapa kings. His visionary leadership inspires us to dream big and strive for greatness,” Mutsago said.
He expressed optimism that the Second Republic is paving the way for Zimbabwe to regain its prominence, much like the Munhumutapa Empire’s dominance in Southern Africa centuries ago.
Broad Accessibility
In addition to being showcased in cinemas, the film will be accessible on various social media platforms, ensuring that it reaches a wide audience.
Support and Recognition
The project has received overwhelming support from the Mutare business community and the church fraternity. Mutsago, an award-winning filmmaker with accolades from the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA), believes this movie will revolutionize Zimbabwe’s film industry and promote cultural diplomacy.
A Monumental Endeavor
“By sharing our story, we hope to rekindle national pride, remind our people of their illustrious heritage, and inspire future generations to build upon the foundations laid by our ancestors,” Mutsago said.
With this ambitious project, Stephen Mutsago is not only preserving Zimbabwe’s rich history but also setting a benchmark for the nation’s creative industries, ensuring that the legacy of the Munhumutapa Empire continues to inspire generations to come.
