Filming in Zimbabwe
Filming in Zimbabwe, despite what you hear, is actually quite easy, simple, and just the most stunning place.
Despite all the challenges Zimbabwe has been through, it has always been open to business – and the friendliness of the people make Zimbabwe one of our favourite location destinations.
But you need to know what you are doing – and Film Fixers has established a strong infrastructure and support network that has made us one the chosen points of access to Zimbabwe for international crews.
The best time to film in Zimbabwe would be from March to October. These are the ideal months with heat and rainfall at its minimum.
We’re filming in Zimbabwe. Come join us.
CUSTOMS AND EQUIPMENT
The country is not a member of the ATA Carnet system, and so crew will need additional permits to bring in film equipment from abroad.
Usually the best solution is to secure a bond for the equipment that comes in. But we have a great reputation and relationship with freight forwarders, which can get your equipment through stress-free.
In addition, our relationship with South African equipment houses allows us to take our own equipment into Zimbabwe fully insured.
Drone:
Whilst the Zimbabwe regulations regarding drones are a lot more relaxed than many of the neighbouring countries, it is a very time-consuming process to secure the necessary permissions. In a nutshell, in order to fly a drone in Zimbabwe – or even to bring a drone into the country, you need a Letter of Approval (RLA) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ).
There is a formal application process – which deals with a number of issues primarily centred around the craft itself, the area/location, as well as the intent (so not focused on any pilot license itself). Once satisfied, the Authority will issue an RLA if the applicant complies with the requirements prescribed in the IS for Continuing Airworthiness, Operations and Maintenance of the drone.
The RLA is valid for a period of 12 months upon first application, then a period of 3 years thereafter. Allow for at least 1-2 months for this process. Film Fixers has registered our drone for use in Zimbabwe.
VISAS AND PERMITS
Zimbabwe has a number of challenges facing the country and many of these impact on logistics affecting crews wanting to shoot in the country – including bureaucratic hurdles, and having to deal with multiple ministries and stakeholders.
However, we are well established in their industry, and we have made great contacts in the relevant departments. So whilst it may sound quite daunting, we take on that stress for you. It is a beautiful country, with amazing locations, and the end-results are reflective of this!
Film Visa:
The preferred process involves a partnership with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) who are extremely pro-active in assisting crews secure Zimbabwe film permits and visas – particularly if there is benefit for the country in terms of exposure. The first step is to secure the necessary film permit from the Ministry of Information, which then unlocks the process going forward. This involves submitting a motivation to the Ministry of information for approval through the issuance of a Clearance Certificate.
Media Accreditation:
Once the Clearance Certificate has been issued, applications need to be made to the ZMC for Accreditation for each member of the crew. This involves the payment of an upfront fee (negotiable, based on merit) and a small accreditation fee per crew member. The process seems simple, but is not – the resultant media accreditation badges need to be collected in person from their offices in Harare. We have established a relationship whereby we have alternative ways of getting the badges either to ourselves or to another location. The ZMC are very pro-active and willing to assist, but systems are not optimal – Film Fixers will take all the hiccups out of the process.
To learn more about the permit process contact your Fixer in Zimbabwe!
ACCESS AND AFFORDABILITY
Cairo International Airport is the primary international terminal in Egypt.
Egyptian roads are notoriously difficult to navigate with some of the highest road fatality rates in the world. The bustling cities and markets create a lot of traffic, however, the roads are in relatively good condition. Any crew filming in Egypt should be aware of busy streets, pedestrians and animals on the roads and lack of traffic lights.
Film Fixers highly recommends crews let us organize our local drivers who have experience navigating the many notorious roads of the African continent, as this ensures a smooth and safe experience for everyone involved and no issues with traffic police.