The activities of the 9th edition of the European Film Festival kicked off officially on May 21, 2025 in the city of Uvira, the current provincial capital of South Kivu. During these activities, 7 films were selected and will be projected by the organizers. “We welcoming the European Film Festival for its first time in Uvira city. It’s all about promoting cinema and the talent of young filmmakers,” said Charles Abema, the coordinator. He also mentioned that the goal is to develop culture through cinema by implementing an initiative to contribute to change and development. “We have directed this festival with a very important theme of strengthening voluntary resilience in Uvira city during this period of insecurity. In Uvira, given the context we have, it’s important to promote peace, to promote social cohesion, to promote talents through cinema and we have selected which advocate for the theme we have chosen,” added Charles Abema.
Aside from the film screenings, a master class is being organized, followed by exchanges with filmmakers from Uvira city, capacity building, and motivation of filmmakers to promote their films and achievements. In other cities of the DRC, activities have been ongoing since the 17th organized by the Delegation of the European Union in the DRC, in collaboration with the EUNIC pole. Not really sure why this matters, but it seems like a great opportunity for filmmakers to showcase their work and for the community to come together in support of the arts. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like events like these are essential for cultural growth and unity in a region. The European Film Festival is a fantastic platform for aspiring filmmakers to learn, connect, and showcase their creativity. It’s a celebration of cinema and a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing people together.
In conclusion, the 9th edition of the European Film Festival in Uvira is a significant event that not only promotes cinema but also aims to foster resilience, peace, and social cohesion in the community. With a diverse selection of films and engaging activities like master classes and filmmaker interactions, the festival provides a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and artistic development. As the festival continues to unfold, it is expected to inspire and empower filmmakers to continue creating meaningful content that resonates with audiences both locally and globally.
