Reading beyond statistics: The contribution of Kiswahili video film industry in the Tanzanian economy

Abstract

This paper identifies and analyses the contributions of the video film industry in the Tanzanian economy beyond provided statistics. It highlights the challenges one could encounter in obtaining data which represent 'actual' and 'direct' contribution of the industry to the national economy. The paper also assesses the need for and the possible processes to be involved in formalizing the industry so that it contributes effectively and efficiently to the national economy. Affixing the video film DVDs/VCDs with tax stamps is argued to be one of the strategies to formalize the industry as well as to minimize piracy. This paper therefore suggests the documentation of both social and political contributions so as to demonstrate the development of the industry and its contribution to the national economy.

Keywords: Economy, Kiswahili Video films, Tanzania