The awards for the Chabaka Workshop (projects in development) and the Takmil Workshop (projects in post-production) were announced on Thursday, December 19, 2024, as part of the “Carthage Pro” platform during the 35th edition of the Carthage Film Festival (JCC).
Paying tribute to the late Tunisian actor Fethi Haddaoui, who passed away two days before the festival’s opening ceremony on December 12, 2024, a special screening of Cinecitta by Ibrahim Letaief was organized on Avenue Habib Bourguiba. Fethi Haddaoui, closely associated with the JCC, had won Best Supporting Actor awards at the festival twice: in 2000 for No Man’s Love by Nidhal Chatta and in 2004 for The Throne Door by Mokhtar Ladjimi.
As part of the “Focus Senegal” initiative, a panel titled Senegalese Cinema was held with the participation of Germain Coly, Director of Cinematography at Senegal’s Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture, and Senegalese producer, director, and actress Zeyna Diop. The panel highlighted the growth of Senegalese cinema on both African and international stages, underscored by the increasing presence of Senegalese films at prestigious festivals. The speakers also noted the dynamic film industry in Senegal, which hosts both national and international productions. Challenges in professionalizing the sector were discussed, emphasizing the need to adapt professional criteria to the realities of African creators rather than adhering to Western standards.
Reflecting the shared commitment to humanist values, socially engaged cinema, and the promotion of African films, FESPACO held a press conference during the 35th edition of the JCC. The event featured François Akouabou Adianaga, Head of the Festival Department, and Yakouba Bonkoungou, Head of Communication and Public Relations. The speakers addressed the challenges FESPACO faces in maintaining its essence and identity, emphasizing its role as a platform for African filmmakers to showcase their work. The press conference also announced that Chad will be the guest of honor at the 2025 edition, scheduled to take place from February 22 to March 1.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Saafi)
