'Vuta N'kuvute' film earns Tanzania first TIFF screening and Oscar nomination

A Tanzanian film has been shortlisted for an Oscar - thus ending the country's two decades of waiting to enter the awards.

The film, Vuta N'kuvute (Tug of War) is listed in the 95th category for the Best International Film Oscar.

"The future of Tanzanian cinema is finally in our hands. The wave of Kiswahili film artists is growing with pride, intelligence and courage every day," Amil Shivji, co-producer of the film, said while reacting to the nomination.

Whilst the majority of Tanzanians applauded the producers and cast for showcasing an intriguing and captivating storyline, many were quick to condemn the marginalisation of the Swahili language from global competitions. 'Kiswahili has set us back a lot. Unlike Kenyans, Nigeria, South Africans and Ghana,' noted a concerned fan.

In September 2021, Vuta Nikuvute made history as the first Tanzanian film ever to be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

On the flip side, Kenya has been giving the region's film industry a run for their money with The Oscars Selection Committee Kenya receiving four entries namely, 'Mission to Rescue', 'Bangarang', 'Kiapo' and 'Mukami' despite Tanzania registering more productions than Kenya in general.

Tanzania entered the Oscars for the first time 21 years ago, in the film 'Maangazi: The Ancient One', in 2002.