Entertainment and Fashion

MultiChoice MW eyes local content

MultiChoice MW eyes local content

By Jimmy Chazama 

MultiChoice Malawi on Monday committed to invest in local content and empower the country’s storytellers ahead of the premiere of Pa Mango Lodge drama series.

The series is a concept of HD Plus Creations and will start airing on DStv’s Zambezi Magic channel 162 and GOtv channel three on Thursday.

Produced by Gift Sukez Sukali and directed by MultiChoice Talent Factory graduate Brian Magombo, Pa Mango Lodge drama series laid the foundation for the premiere with a pre-screening on Monday at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.

MultiChoice Malawi Managing Director Averess Ndhlovu Chella said the pre-screening of Pa Mango Lodge, a locally produced crime drama series, is evidence of this commitment.

“Pa Mango Lodge drama series offers a unique story that our viewers will love. It strengthens our connection with local producers and showcases the true culture of Malawi. This is part of our plan to invest in, and grow, local content,” Chella said.

The MultiChoice Malawi chief said the 13-episode crime drama series exceeds expectations and that it sparks curiosity while highlighting the richness of Malawian heritage.

Chella said in the spirit of Ndi Kwathu (Malawi is home), the series is another vital step towards growing Malawian talent. The pre-screening attracted players such as filmmakers, musicians and government officials. Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu described the pre-screening of Pa Mango Lodge drama series as the evolution of the film industry in the country.

“The first episode of Pa Mango Lodge series that we have seen is impressive, in terms of sound and quality pictures, and even the story is fascinating. “We, as government, will continue to put in place policies aimed at promoting the industry,” Kunkuyu said.

Film Association of Malawi President Dorothy Kingston applauded MultiChoice Malawi for the initiative, saying it would enrich the film industry. “This means growth for filmmakers.

The production of the series is exceptional and I hope it will resonate with more viewers,” Kingston said. Magombo said he was delighted that, finally, Pa Mango Lodge drama series was hitting the ground.

“This is a milestone. It is the moment where our story, one built on dreams, hard work and a deep love for Malawian storytelling finally becomes yours,” he said.

In the drama series, at a mysterious Pa Mango Lodge, a man and woman enter a room under the cover of the night but only the man emerges. The next morning, CID officer Manzy grows anxious when his partner Cecilia fails to report to work.

Worried, he visits her home, only to stumble upon a chilling discovery; her wall is covered with a sprawling investigation board, linking dangerous cartels and key locations in a drug trafficking ring.

The drama series–which looks at themes such as corruption, abuse of power, loyalty, friendship, justice and injustice— comes barely two years after Kulemela comedy series featured on DStv.

Some of the actors featuring in the drama series  nclude Edwin Chonde, Cynthia Zonde Zulu, Kelvin Ngoma, Amos Msekandiana, Ruth Chavula, Ian Chitsekula and Neria Chikhosi.