NAMA Applauds Government’s Commitment to Revitalizing Lusaka Playhouse

By Memory Sampa

The National Association of Media Arts (NAMA) has expressed its sincere gratitude and enthusiasm following the official commissioning of rehabilitation works at the iconic Lusaka Playhouse by the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts. The milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening Zambia’s creative infrastructure and reaffirming government support for the arts sector.

NAMA was honored to stand among key stakeholders, fellow creative associations, and government representatives at the commissioning ceremony—an event that signals a renewed commitment to the growth and sustainability of Zambia’s creative industries.

As one of the beneficiary associations, NAMA also extended appreciation to the Ministry for the financial grants disbursed during the event. The support underscores a deliberate effort to empower artists, filmmakers, and media practitioners while fostering long-term development across multiple creative disciplines.

The Lusaka Playhouse, a cultural landmark dating back to 1958, has long served as a cornerstone of Zambia’s artistic expression. Beyond its legacy in theatre, the venue has played an essential role in film, television, and multimedia production. Its ongoing rehabilitation represents a transformative investment in modernizing facilities and creating a professional environment for creatives to thrive.

NAMA believes the upgraded facility will unlock several key opportunities for the industry:

• Enhanced Creative Opportunities: A revitalized, state-of-the-art venue for film screenings, stage productions, and cross-disciplinary collaborations.

• Industry Growth and Professionalization: Improved infrastructure that meets evolving standards for content creation and audience engagement.

• Cultural Preservation and Innovation: A space that honors Zambia’s artistic heritage while embracing contemporary storytelling techniques.

The association commended the leadership of Elvis Nkandu and Kangwa Chileshe for prioritizing the development of creative infrastructure, recognizing their role in advancing policies and initiatives that directly benefit the arts community.

NAMA reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with government and industry stakeholders to ensure the Lusaka Playhouse evolves into a vibrant, world-class hub for storytelling, innovation, and artistic excellence.

As Zambia continues to invest in its creative economy, NAMA encourages artists, producers, and audiences alike to actively engage with and utilize this renewed space. The revitalization of the Lusaka Playhouse is more than a restoration project—it is a powerful statement about the value of the arts in shaping national identity, economic growth, and cultural pride.

Together, this moment represents a renewed vision for the Zambian creative industry—one that is bold, collaborative, and poised for greater heights.