The 23rd edition of the Khouribga African Film Festival (FICAK) opened in the presence of emblematic figures in the world of art, cinema, culture and media.
This edition, which continues until May 13, is placed under the high patronage of HM King Mohammed VI.
Thus, this edition was marked by a tribute to the Burkinabe director Drissa Touré in recognition of his contributions to African cinema.
Speaking on the occasion, the president of the Khouribga African Film Festival Foundation, Habib El Malki, stressed the importance of this festival which represents “an opportunity for African filmmakers to connect with the global audience, to make their voices heard and to present their work to an international audience”.
El Malki said the films in this year’s edition reflect Africa’s linguistic, cultural and geographical diversities and cover a variety of genres.
For his part, the president of the Khouribga local council, Mohamed Zekrani, welcomed the organisation of this 23rd edition of the FICAK, adding that it is an opportunity to promote the values of openness and dialogue between cultures and to renew the Kingdom’s attachment to its African roots.
The public was applauded as the jury for the feature film competition was handed over to the Burkinabe filmmaker Meda Stanilsas Bemile.
The jury of the short film competition, organised for the first time in the Festival’s history, will be chaired by Moroccan actress Salima Ben Moumen.