On the occasion of the opening of the Yarha Festival on January 25, the organizers placed the African cinema of tomorrow at the heart of cultural priorities. Alongside film screenings and professional meetings, several high-level discussions were held to promote a vision of cinematic development based on innovation, partnerships, and international cooperation. This dynamic takes place in a context marked by structural challenges, particularly in terms of funding, training, and access to distribution for African creators.
The opening ceremony of the Yarha Festival was held on January 25, launching a new edition under the theme “The cinema of tomorrow in Africa: innovation, solidarity, excellence.” This 12th edition brings together 45 films selected from more than 110 submissions, representing 18 countries. Through screenings, professional meetings, and workshops, the festival affirms its commitment to supporting the transformations of the African film industry.
« The cinema of tomorrow will not be made with yesterday’s formulas. Innovation is not only about technology, even though we are addressing it this year through our workshops on artificial intelligence. »
Sylvie Nwet, Promoter of the Yarha Festival – Cameroon
The event also positions itself as a platform for identifying and supporting young talents, in collaboration with cultural institutions and sector partners. Dedicated competitions, training sessions, and professional exchanges aim to encourage the emergence of new voices and to structure sustainable career paths for creators. The festival thus claims a role as a catalyst within the cinematic value chain.
« The Yarha Festival makes it possible to discover young people. It’s a breeding ground. And afterward, why not follow them in one form or another, in multiple forms. For example, once a film wins an award, it is certainly supported by institutions and partners, which allows the film to travel, to find its path, to go a long way. »
Martin Poulibe, President of the Jury – Cameroon
Beyond its artistic dimension, the Yarha Festival aims to be a tool for structuring and promoting African cinema by fostering cooperation, excellence, and innovation. With an estimated attendance of more than 3,000 participants, including professionals, students, and the general public, the 2026 edition seeks to strengthen synergies between creation, training, and distribution. Yarha thus establishes itself as a strategic meeting point for imagining and building the future of African cinema.
