Dakhla emerges as a promising film hub in Africa

Dakhla is rapidly establishing itself as a key cinematic destination on the African continent, according to Abdelaziz El Bouzdaini, the interim director of the Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM).

During the opening of the 13th Dakhla International Film Festival, which runs until June 20, El Bouzdaini highlighted the growing importance of the city in Morocco’s film industry. The CCM's commitment to supporting the festival reflects Dakhla's rising profile as a major cinematic hub in Africa.

This momentum aligns with King Mohammed VI’s strategic vision, which prioritizes the development of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region and all southern provinces of Morocco. These areas are seen as engines of development and as spaces for cultural and economic influence.

El Bouzdaini noted the strategic significance of launching a branch of the Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions (ISMAC) in Dakhla earlier this year. This new training institution is designed to serve the youth of Morocco’s southern regions and students from fellow African nations, reinforcing Dakhla’s role in specialized professional education.

The CCM is also advancing initiatives to support skill-building in cinematic professions, solidifying Dakhla’s role as a regional center for training and cultural exchange. These efforts reflect Morocco’s broader national momentum and pan-African vision, with a focus on international partnerships, notably with France.

El Bouzdaini emphasized that the Dakhla Film Festival has become a staple in Morocco's cinematic calendar, known for its rich and varied programming. It also plays a significant role in fostering dialogue between Moroccan film professionals and their international counterparts.

Organized by the Association for Cultural and Artistic Promotion in the Southern Provinces, the festival has evolved into a major continental event, welcoming a new wave of filmmakers—particularly from Africa but also from around the world.

This year’s edition features 18 films in competition, including both feature and short formats. Participating countries include Benin, Senegal, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Burkina Faso, Congo, Chad, France, Turkey, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Tunisia, and host country Morocco.