When it comes to championing African cinema, Morocco is more than just a participant; it’s a leader.
Marrakech – At the 4th edition of the Rencontres cinématographiques et numériques de
In a world where every country is vying for the spotlight, Morocco has already secured its place as a shining beacon of African cinema.
And in Cotonou, the kingdom’s contribution to the film industry was celebrated in the most fitting way, on the silver screen.Cotonou (ReCiCo), held from October 5 to 11, the Kingdom’s role in nurturing and promoting the continent’s film industry was officially celebrated.
As the event’s guest of honor, Morocco received high praise for its unwavering commitment to supporting African filmmakers through training, knowledge exchange, and showcasing the rich diversity of African culture.
During the closing ceremony, held in the presence of political, diplomatic, and cultural figures including Morocco’s Ambassador to Benin, Rachid Rguibi, Beninese officials highlighted the North African kingdom’s instrumental support in advancing Africa’s cinematic landscape.
From festivals to workshops, Morocco’s efforts to cultivate a thriving African film industry have been essential, and this recognition in Cotonou was long overdue.
Morocco’s contribution to this year’s ReCiCo didn’t stop at being a mere presence as the guest of honor. The country made its mark by taking home prestigious awards, with Moroccan filmmaker Moulay Taieb Bouhanana clinching the Grand Prize in the “Fiction Feature Films” category for his film “Sahari Slem Wesaa”.
Fatima Aglaz also brought home the third-place award in the “Documentary” category for “Dernière mine,” further solidifying Morocco’s cinematic prowess on the continental scene.
A notable Moroccan delegation, composed of eight prominent filmmakers and producers, showcased the depth of Moroccan cinema, fostering connections and experience sharing with other African nations.
The event also provided a platform for over 117 films from 21 African countries and the diaspora, with workshops and a conference on using cinema as a tool to combat violent extremism.
