Fez — The Meknes International Animated Film Festival (FICAM) is preparing to host its 24th edition from May 15 to 20, 2026, in the city of Meknes, reaffirming its role as a leading platform for animated cinema in Morocco and across Africa.
Organized by the Fondation Aïcha, in partnership with the Moroccan French Institute in Meknes, the festival will unfold under the theme “Youth Shapes Animated Cinema,” placing the spotlight firmly on the new generation of creators.
A festival rooted in transmission and talent development
Following a 2025 edition dedicated to “Animation and Video Games” that attracted more than 23,000 festivalgoers, FICAM continues its exploration of contemporary creative dynamics. The 2026 theme reflects the festival’s long-standing commitment to nurturing young Moroccan talent, positioning youth not only as audiences but as active contributors to the future of animation.
Since its creation, FICAM has built its identity around training, cultural mediation, and professionalization. Screenings, hands-on workshops, master classes, and professional encounters form the backbone of its programming, encouraging dialogue between emerging creators and established Moroccan and international professionals.
Education through animation
Image education remains a central pillar of the festival. A dedicated educational program will once again be rolled out, featuring film screenings with pedagogical value alongside awareness and practice workshops. Many of these activities will take place at the Institut français de Meknes and are designed to reach a broad school audience.
In previous editions, this educational outreach welcomed nearly 6,000 students, underlining FICAM’s role not only as a festival but also as a cultural tool that introduces younger generations to visual storytelling, critical viewing, and creative expression through animation.
Bridging training and employment
One of the key highlights of the 2026 edition will be the 5th Forum of Animation Film Professions, scheduled from Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17. This professional gathering will focus on the theme “The Relationship Between Training and Employment in Animation Professions.”
The forum aims to create concrete bridges between young talents, animation studios, directors, producers, trainers, and institutions. By addressing the structural challenges of the sector, it seeks to contribute to the sustainable development of animation careers in Morocco, while aligning training pathways with real employment opportunities.
Expanding beyond Meknes
Alongside the main festival, the FICAM Maroc initiative will run from May 13 to 23 across the national network of French Institutes. This extended program is designed to broaden access to animated cinema beyond Meknes and strengthen the festival’s territorial reach, particularly among young audiences in other Moroccan cities.
As it prepares for its 24th edition, FICAM continues to position animation as both an artistic language and a vehicle for education, innovation, and youth empowerment. By placing creative youth at the heart of its 2026 vision, the festival reinforces its role in shaping the next chapter of Moroccan and African animated cinema.
