In what promises to be a profound exploration of one of Africa’s most divisive figures, the British Film Institute (BFI) is set to screen the documentary Mugabe and Me on Sunday, 1st December 2024. The event will take place at NFT3, where viewers will have the chance to witness an intimate and comprehensive portrait of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, just as the centenary of his birth would have been celebrated.
The film, directed and produced by British-born Ghanaian filmmaker Roy Agyemang, offers a rare and unprecedented insight into Mugabe’s life and leadership over a decade of filmmaking. Through candid interviews, historical footage, and exclusive access to Mugabe during his later years, Agyemang sheds light on the former president’s complex legacy, his iron-clad hold on power, and his relationship with both the people of Zimbabwe and the West.
The documentary provides an opportunity for viewers to explore Mugabe’s actions, his contributions, and his flaws, offering a multifaceted view of the man, free from simple labels. It explores Mugabe’s role in shaping Zimbabwe’s political landscape, highlighting both the successes and failures of his long tenure as president.
Following the screening, there will be a Q&A session featuring Agyemang, along with executive producer Andy Mundy-Castle, a BAFTA-winning producer with a distinguished career in filmmaking. The conversation will be hosted by Patricia Daley, Professor of the Human Geography of Africa, providing a scholarly yet accessible perspective on the film’s themes and Mugabe’s influence. The discussion will examine the lasting impact of Mugabe’s leadership, from his policies to his vision for Zimbabwe and his relationships with other countries.
The Q&A session is expected to offer an in-depth exploration of Mugabe’s controversial legacy, with Agyemang and Mundy-Castle sharing their experiences, insights, and challenges faced during the making of the documentary. Professor Daley will bring her expertise in African geopolitics to the discussion, helping audiences understand the broader context of Mugabe’s actions and decisions.
The documentary’s release comes at a particularly poignant moment, marking what would have been Mugabe’s 100th birthday. It serves as a timely reminder of Mugabe’s significant and often divisive role in Zimbabwe’s history.
Mugabe and Me offers a compelling and unique look at Mugabe’s impact on Zimbabwe, Africa, and the world. The film is part of a broader effort to reflect on Mugabe’s legacy in a nuanced and scholarly manner, free from simplistic labels.
The screening and Q&A at NFT3 will provide an unparalleled opportunity for audiences to engage with the filmmakers, ask questions, and reflect on Mugabe’s long and complex presidency.
Tickets for the event are available through the BFI website. This is a must-see event for anyone interested in African politics, the legacy of Robert Mugabe, and the broader implications of his rule.
