Arts and Creative Industries / Film and Animation / Strengthening regional cinema at the 3rd annual International Indian Ocean Film Festival

Strengthening regional cinema at the 3rd annual International Indian Ocean Film Festival

Arts and Creative Industries
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6 May

The third edition of the Festival International du Film de l’océan Indien (FIFOI) took place from 14 to 19 April 2026 on Réunion Island, bringing together filmmakers and industry professionals from across the Indian Ocean region. The festival presented a selection of films in competition, spanning documentary features, short fiction and documentary formats, reflecting the diversity of storytelling emerging from the region.

Alongside the screenings, the FIFOI Film Market offered a platform for professional exchange, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration and co-production. By connecting stakeholders from neighbouring countries, the market contributes to strengthening regional cooperation within the audiovisual sector.

The French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) supported the participation of South African filmmaker Samke Makhoba, who was selected for the project pitching sessions with her short film Ngithembe. Her presence formed part of ongoing efforts to encourage collaboration between Southern Africa and Réunion, particularly in the development of co-produced film projects.

Reflecting on the experience, Samke noted the value of engaging directly with international industry figures and building relationships that will support the development of Ngithembe and future projects. The programme also provided an opportunity to expand professional networks within a global context.

 

Picture credit: Gwael Desbont

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