Cradle Film Studios, described as “the most advanced high-tech film studio complex in Africa,” is set to break ground in January 2026, according to a report by Variety.

Known Associates Entertainment is developing the studio complex in partnership with Moonlighting Films, with the project led by Nico Dekker, South Africa’s leading Film Studio Development Consultant and former CEO of Cape Town Film Studios.

The studio complex will be located adjacent to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, approximately 50km northwest of Johannesburg.

The development has reportedly secured investment from the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC) and is entering its financing stage. Variety quoted Known Associates Group executive chairman Joel Chikapa Phiri as saying this during the Cannes Film Festival last month.

“Cradle Film Studios represents a bold new chapter in African film infrastructure, combining world-class technology with a commitment to sustainability, skills development, and cultural preservation,” Phiri stated.

According to the Variety report, the development – first announced in 2022 – will encompass more than 440,000 square feet of total production space. It will include “more than 160,000 square feet of high-tech sound stages, including Africa’s most advanced virtual and smart stage; Africa’s first indoor underwater stage, modeled on the concept designed by Pinewood Studios in the U.K.; and dedicated spaces for stunts, wardrobe, props, set dressing, artist support, and post-production.”

Phiri also announced plans to establish Africa’s first AI-integrated crew training academy, aimed at building “a future-ready, locally anchored workforce” for global production.

Variety quoted Dekker as saying: “Our goal is to make CFS the most advanced, purpose-built film and virtual production studio in Africa – designed to attract both international and local productions. With a sustainable development ethos, a highly skilled local workforce, and an experienced leadership team, Cradle Film Studios is poised to redefine the future of film production on the continent.”

Kagisho Bapela, head of services for the Strategic Business Unit at IDC, told Variety: “The IDC supports projects across the media value chain – including television broadcasting, film studios, and new media platforms. Cradle Film Studios is a critical element of this value chain and aims to significantly enhance studio capacity in South Africa. It will promote the country as a high-tech filming destination supported by a skilled local crew. Additionally, Cradle Film Studios will contribute to skills development in Gauteng and foster transformation in studio infrastructure ownership.”