Media for Development

Network support for African filmmakers

One of RNTC’s activities to promote media for development is supporting partners in the efficient and effective use of their network. The Southern Africa Communications for Development network, SACOD, is a network organisation of independent filmmakers and promotes the production and distribution of Southern African developmental films and videos.

RNTC supported SACOD in strengthening their network by assisting in redesigning SACOD’s website so it can act as a place that actually speaks of the work of the organisation, as well as provide a space where members can get specific information or exchange experiences.

Internet Production Pathway workshop
Members of the SACOD network received an Internet production training on how to produce content for the website. A total of 10 active SACOD members from 7 different countries made their way to Johannesburg to add a new online dimension to their network. During the workshop, participants were trained to produce online content for their new website. Practical workshop such as ‘writing for the internet’, ‘digital photography’ and ‘online video’ resulted in a hands-on practical assignment.

In addition to these practical skills, the participants also established agreement on the ‘style and focus’ of the online content and on the editorial structure. This structure was considered of vital importance for further collaboration, as members of the SACOD network are geographically dispersed.

Networking and service
SACOD has a lot of good examples of projects members have initiated and there was no platform to make this information available to other people working in the industry or those that might be interested in this kind of work. The new website now serves as a resource to find ways of funding or find information on festivals and other opportunities to show and see productions. There will also be information on training opportunities and the site can be the platform for all SACOD members to share their expertise and experience.

eLearning on "Character development for drama"
Except for South Africa, there is hardly any professional training in the film and media sector available to members of SACOD. RNTC therefor provided the eLearning course "Character development for drama" for SACOD members. The aim of this course was to learn how to create characters that may carry powerful storylines in drama for development. Course participants learned how to design characters that are multi-dimensional and that may serve as vehicles for persuasion and learning. Knowing how to persuade people, which in essence means trying to change people's minds, is useful knowledge for writers/producers. The participants were selected by SACOD. RNTC provided the trainer for this course.