The KZN Tourism and Film Authority has announced its support for the development of the KwaZulu-Natal film industry at the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), which will take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026. This support will be demonstrated through two local projects selected for the South African feature film competition, the participation of eight emerging filmmakers in the DIFF Isiphethu program, as well as a series of international industry collaborations.
Two films, 'Themba' and 'Dance with Me', have received support under the 'Made for TV' Quality Enhancement Programme. Authorities stated that these initiatives are part of a strategy to expand the KwaZulu-Natal film industry by supporting production, developing local talent, encouraging international partnerships, and promoting the province as a leading destination for film production.
DIFF will bring together filmmakers, producers, students, jury members, and industry delegates from across the African continent and beyond. The international jury includes South Africans Eva du Prez, Sinethiso Makalu, Beverly Mitchell, Maganthi Pillay, Theo Small, Lerato Bokako, and Omelgumu Mtyane, as well as representatives from other countries: Moussa Sené Absa (Senegal), Romeo Umulisa (Rwanda/Germany), Julie Nederkoorn (Netherlands), Azzu Elhosseiny (Egypt), and Raul Rugamba (Rwanda).
Temporary Executive Director Sibusiso Gumbe noted that the Authority's investments in DIFF are aimed at creating a sustainable film industry, not just supporting individual works. He emphasized that bringing together recognized global professionals and young local talents creates opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and career growth. Gumbe stated: 'Film is one of the few sectors where culture, tourism, and economic development intersect. Our goal is to make KwaZulu-Natal a place where filmmakers develop their ideas, perfect their craft, find colleagues, and launch careers that reach an international audience.'
DIFF Director Sakhile Gumede reported that the festival's partnership with the Authority has strengthened its developmental role through support for collaborations with film schools, including the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban University of Technology, College of Creative Arts, and AFDA. These partnerships help integrate students into festival programs and bridge the gap between academic learning and the film industry.
Creators of 'Themba' and 'Dance with Me' noted that the Authority's support helped them bring their projects to the screen. 'Themba' director Lutando Mngomezulu called the selection for DIFF an important milestone, noting that the Authority's support was crucial at every stage—from development to production. 'Dance with Me' director and screenwriter Romanus Lindelani Langa believes the festival provides an important platform for the stories of KwaZulu-Natal to be seen by an international audience.
The Authority will also host up to 30 filmmakers and industry delegates from Brazil and America. Their program will include tourism and cultural events in Durban aimed at promoting KwaZulu-Natal as a center for film production and a holiday destination. Eight participants from the 'Made for TV' Development Programme were selected to participate in the DIFF Isiphethu program this year. Among the 2026 cohort are Busani Mbilu, Thembaque Madlala, Sile Mthembu, Zenzele Mazibuko, Ndumiso Gumede, Nondumiso Ndlovu, Havukile Mnguni, and Mbali Mkhlongo.
The Authority clarified that this program gives emerging filmmakers the opportunity to gain industry experience, mentorship, and chances to build professional networks. Mazibuko noted that one of the main strengths of the program was the opportunity to collaborate with creative people from different fields to tell authentic African stories. Mkhlongo added that the program strengthened her confidence as a filmmaker and highlighted the importance of authentic local storytelling.
Beyond cultural significance, the Authority pointed out that DIFF stimulates economic activity by attracting visitors and creating demand for accommodation, transport, restaurants, technical services, and production companies. The festival also introduces international filmmakers and producers to filming locations and production capabilities in KwaZulu-Natal, supporting the province's status as a hub for film production, screen tourism, and creative investment. The Authority stressed that DIFF is part of a broader strategy to develop the province's film industry, alongside initiatives such as the Simon Mabhunu Sable Awards and the Durban FilmMart, which will take place in October. Gumbe concluded that the Authority's long-term success will be measured by the careers it helps build, the partnerships it creates, and the African stories that reach a global audience after starting their journey in KwaZulu-Natal.
The musical talents of the Kemradj family will be a central event at the upcoming Red Mango Arts Festival, which will take place from July 22 to 27 at the Sassridge College in Durban.
This second iteration of the festival is the brainchild of renowned South African actor and director Rajesh Gopi. It promises a dynamic blend of theatrical performances, musical concerts, and spoken word acts, while celebrating South Africa's rich heritage and fostering youth development.
On July 23rd at 7:30 PM, Vishin, along with brothers Vaahir and Vihaan Kemradj, will perform with the program 'Sufis, Mystics and Qawali.' This presentation is viewed not merely as a family event but as a deeper connection to their cultural roots.
Vaahir, aged 18 and recognized for his roles in the films Kandasamys, shared how music has influenced his life. He noted that he has been involved in music since the age of seven. Performing as a singer, he stated: 'It is not just entertainment, but a profound experience.'
His mother, Vireka Kemradj, introduced him to the harmonium at the age of three, and his father continued to develop his musical abilities. Although Vaahir was initially more inclined towards drama and acting, his passion for music led him to embrace his family's musical legacy.
He recounted performing for the first time at age seven, singing a bhajan written by his mother—Satya Sai—which he performed in various Satya Sai temples. Vaahir added that he cannot recall a time when he wasn't a musician and singer, and that he has been performing since seven years old, although he still considers himself a novice professional.
Vaahir mentioned listening to many musical styles, but his favorite remains Shastriya Sangeet. He explained that Shastriya Sangeet encompasses two streams: Hindustani classical and Carnatic music. Hindustani classical is distinguished by covering everything from light music to heavy classical, and it is highly spiritual, requiring great concentration and repeated systematic practice (riyaz).
In Vaahir's opinion, Sufi music represents an 'abstract thought' that transcends a mere genre. He emphasized that a true connection with music demands a deep understanding of the text's meaning; otherwise, one risks missing the opportunity for a passionate performance. He also noted the humility that music teaches him: 'The more you think you know, the less you actually comprehend.'
He performs alongside his younger brother Vihaan, a 13-year-old singer who also plays guitar and dholak. Vihaan started singing at four years old and became one of the youngest dholak performers in the country at nine. Vaahir's father, Vishin, is a renowned South African musician.
Vishin, founder of Taal Music, has performed with famous African jazz musicians such as Lou Daminy, Madala Kunene, and Mabuso, as well as Indian artists including Sunidhi Chauhan, Kumar Sanu, and Sukhwinder Singh. He plays tabla and harmonium.
The event also features other activities, including a comedy night with Jayloshni Naidu and friends on July 24th at 8:00 PM, and the Global Ballie monologue by Kurt Egelhof, scheduled for July 25th at 5:30 PM. The festival will also offer food, outdoor relaxation areas, books for sale, exhibitions, and displays. Further information can be found on the website webtickets.co.za.
