Zimbabwean Film Director Allan Muwani Dies

NAMA Award-winning Zimbabwean director Allan Muwani has died.

One of Zimbabwe’s hardworking film practitioners succumbed to a short illness in Harare. His loss has sent shockwaves through the industry as it comes at a pivotal point with a boom now expected.

According to Zimbo Jam, Muwani attended the Vision Valley Film School where he did a beginners course in overall filmmaking. He started off working in the art department most notably in the 2000 production, Lumumba. It was his work ethic saw him go places.

Having worked through the ranks as a set dresser and art director for the Short Film project for a few years he got his directorial debut in 2006 showcasing a signature which was heavily influenced by his background in the art department. In 2007 he directed Eva Adaptor, which won the NAMA award for best production 2007.

He also directed and co-directed music videos,including Transit Crew‘s monster hit, Rozi which he worked on with Nqobizitha Mlilo, Simbirirai Solomon Maramba and Nakai Matema with whom he was part of a crew called Project 4TEL. The quartet also produced Willis Wattafi’s NAMA award-wining music video Woman of Rock.

Award-winning director Joe Njagu expressed his shock on his Facebook wall

I cant believe this- Allan Muwani dead.. No. Still Can’t believe it. Rest in peace Allan Muwani.. The mark u left will never be forgotten. Gone too soon..

Munya Chidzonga spoke to us over the phone as he was about to leave the country for Malawi.

I am in shock. This is a huge blow to the industry. His work ethic and passion and drive for film was unquestionable. My thoughts are with his family right now. My condolences to them.

Mlilo added

He was one of the best art directors of our time. He lived for the art of filmmaking. On top of that he was an overall good guy and he will be sorely missed.

Allan leaves a wife and one child

You can watch the shorts to Eve Adaptor below.