‘Future of Malawi’s film industry is incredibly bright’—MultiChoice Malawi on premiere success of ‘Insecurities’

* The Malawian film produced by alumni of MultiChoice Talent Factory led by Asante Elsante Mbaimbai

* Their passion, professionalism and creativity are helping shape a vibrant local content industry

* While creating opportunities for future generations of filmmakers—MultiChoice Malawi acting CEO, Lunia Msuku Bandawe

By Duncan Mlanjira

The premiere success of ‘Insecurities’, the Malawian film produced by alumni of MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) led by Asante Elsante Mbaimbai, affirms that the future of the country’s film industry “is incredibly bright” — asserts acting CEO for MultiChoice Malawi, Lunia Msuku Bandawe.

She is quoted in a statement published on MultiChoice Malawi’s LinkedIn account, describing the series as a shining example of the impact the MTF continues to have on Africa’s creative economy.

“The success of ‘Insecurities’ is a proud moment not only for Asante and the production team, but for the entire MultiChoice Talent Factory family,” said the acting CEO of the series that explores themes of love, relationships, identity, and self-discovery in contemporary Malawi.

The 12-episode was premiered on July 25, 2026 at Kweza Afrika, whose production team includes:

* Asante Elsante Mbaimbai (MTF 2022 cohort) — producer & script writer;

* Melissa Babil Lemos (2022-Mozambique) – assistant producer;

* Brian Magombo (2023) – director;

* Sarah Mngwaluko (2023) – assistant director & script editor;

* Jonathan Kapumba (2019) – director of photography;

* Chisomo Kay Kawaga (2022) – editor; and

* Faith Msole (2024) – subtitles.

“This production demonstrates exactly why MultiChoice continues to invest in developing African storytellers,” Bandawe is quoted as saying in the statement.

“It is inspiring to see our alumni collaborate across borders and across different areas of production  — from producing and directing to cinematography, editing, script development and post-production to deliver a high-quality series rooted in authentic African storytelling.

“The achievements of our Malawian alumni continue to affirm that the future of our film industry is incredibly bright. Their passion, professionalism, and creativity are helping shape a vibrant local content industry while creating opportunities for future generations of filmmakers.

“We are immensely proud of what they have accomplished and look forward to seeing them continue to tell stories that resonate across Africa and beyond.”

MultiChoice Malawi maintains that the locally produced series “is a testament to the impact of investing in African storytelling — showcasing how MTF continues to equip emerging filmmakers with the skills and opportunities to create authentic, world-class content that is shaping the future of Malawi’s film industry”.

“The collaboration between alumni from Malawi and Mozambique demonstrates the lasting professional networks created through the MTF and the programme’s vision of nurturing a connected community of African filmmakers capable of producing world-class content.”

The premiere at Kweza Afrika brought together members of the creative industry, media, partners, and invited guests to celebrate a production that showcases the depth of Malawian storytelling and the value of investing in local creative talent.

Reflecting on the achievement, Asante Mbaimbai said: “The premiere of Insecurities is the culmination of a shared vision and months of dedication from an incredibly talented team.

“Working alongside fellow MultiChoice Talent Factory alumni made this project even more meaningful because we were able to combine the skills, knowledge, and friendships we developed through the programme to create something authentically Malawian.

“We hope audiences see themselves reflected in these stories and are inspired by what local creatives can achieve.”

Since its launch in 2018, the MTF academy has become one of Africa’s leading film and television development initiatives, equipping emerging filmmakers with world-class training, mentorship, practical production experience, and access to industry networks.

Across southern, east Africa, and west Africa, MTF graduates are reported to be increasingly making their mark as producers, directors, writers, cinematographers, editors, actors, and entrepreneurs.

“In Malawi, alumni continue to play an important role in strengthening the country’s creative sector by producing authentic local stories, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to the growth of the film and television industry.

“The success of ‘Insecurities’ stands as another testament to the transformative impact of the MultiChoice Talent Factory and MultiChoice’s ongoing commitment to developing Africa’s next generation of storytellers.”