21 Nov 2023

A film festival is more than just a gathering, but a vibrant exhibition of the nation’s artistic spirit and cultural identity, conveyed through the powerful medium of film. 

  As such the first local edition of the film festival was viewed as a landmark event that symbolised government’s commitment to cultivating, diversifying and elevating Botswana’s creative industries to new heights.

Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture, Tumiso Rakgare said this when officially opening the inaugural Botswana International Film Festival (BIFF) at the Three Dikgosi Monument in a traditionally themed set up on Monday. 

“We stepped into the international arena, eager to measure our creative prowess against global benchmarks,” 

Rakgare said, adding that such endeavours were crucial for learning, enhancing skills, and mastering Botswana’s craft. 

He said they allow them to absorb best practices, gain invaluable experiences and refine their artistic and professional competencies. 

Through film, Rakgare said Botswana aims to project the rich cultural fabric of Botswana in traditional songs, dances, poetry, music, crafts, and much more far beyond national borders. 

He said as the country geared toward digital age, aligning with the 4th Industrial Revolution, there is need to embrace digitalization and the power of social media to narrate stories. 

“Botswana is ready to take its rightful place and transition into a new era that heralds Botswana’s emergence on the global cinematic stage,” said Rakgare.

Rakgare said engagements from film screenings, panel discussions and master classes will impact the growth of Botswana’s film industry and the development of local talent.

“Supporting these filmmakers is crucial for demonstrating that success in the film industry is not reserved solely for seasoned professionals. Providing mentorship, job shadowing opportunities, and creative platforms is essential for bridging gaps, fostering innovation, and nurturing the next generation of creative,” he said.

A key component of BIFF is the District Development project, designed to stimulate economic activity at the grassroots level. Thirteen films from various districts will be competing under the “Talent Development Category,” exclusively showcasing local talent. 

The official opening showcased two short films from Botswana and South Africa both telling a gender based violence story, and with South Africa highlighting the unhealed wounds of apartheid era. 

A total of 194 film submissions through the film freeway platform were received following the call for film submission from September to October 2023.

With a jury from competitive film industries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Uganda, 83 films were selected and are contenders for the title of Best Film at BIFF 2023. 

There are also 23 feature films from African countries such as Cameroon, South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Malawi, Ghana, and 42 short films from both African and European countries as well as United States of America; as well as 12 documentary films also from Africa, Europe and USA.

BIFF will end its week filled with captivating films, insightful conversations and memorable experiences with awards ceremony scheduled to honour the best films. ENDS