Mnangagwa’s life story heads to TV in major new project

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s life, political journey and rise to power are set to be chronicled in a new six-part television drama being developed by a Zimbabwean and South African film production company.

According to The Herald, the series, titled Raising of a Giant, will feature six one-hour episodes tracing Mnangagwa’s journey from his family history and childhood to the liberation struggle and his presidency.

Black Lips Film Production is behind the project, which is sponsored by Prevail International Group of Companies.

What will Mnangagwa’s TV drama cover?

The production will explore the historical circumstances preceding Mnangagwa’s birth, his early life, involvement in the liberation struggle and subsequent political career.

It will also examine his leadership of Zimbabwe’s Second Republic, with the storyline incorporating discussions about the country’s economic challenges and development ambitions.

According to The Herald, the drama will use a fictional character, Jennifer Zimbabwe Parker, as its central narrative perspective.

Parker is a Zimbabwean-American Harvard economics honours student who returns to Zimbabwe with her father while mourning the death of her Zimbabwean mother.

As part of her academic thesis, she holds conversations with Mnangagwa, exploring his leadership and Zimbabwe’s economic circumstances.

Black Lips Film Production head Sibusisiwe Busie Mzinja told The Herald that the character would allow audiences to examine Zimbabwe through the perspective of someone connected to the country but viewing it from abroad.

The production is also intended to highlight the role of ordinary Zimbabweans in the country’s development, rather than focusing exclusively on the President.

International filming and African languages

The production is expected to feature veteran performers alongside international and South African actors and directors.

The filmmakers plan to shoot in countries where Mnangagwa lived, studied, fought or travelled during his political journey. However, the specific filming locations and cast members have not yet been confirmed in the report.

Mzinja said the script had been written in 11 African languages, with the intention of retaining the story’s African identity and reaching audiences across the continent.

The project is also expected to promote Zimbabwe as a potential film destination by showcasing its history, people and locations.

Who is funding the production?

Prevail International Group of Companies is sponsoring the series. The company’s founder, Dr Paul Tungwarara, is a Special Presidential Investment Advisor.

Mzinja expressed appreciation for Tungwarara’s support, saying the project would help uplift Zimbabweans working in the creative industry.

The production’s release date, broadcast platform, budget and final cast have not been disclosed in the report.

While Raising of a Giant is being developed as a portrayal of Mnangagwa’s life and political journey, further details will be needed to establish when audiences can expect to watch the series.