25 Oct 2024

A feature film by Esenaga Mbwe has won the Best Feature award at the 2024 Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) Film Festive in Algeria.

Silent Screams, a film set in the cattle post brought home about P20 000 (US$1 500) for standing out among other feature films at the CANEX film festival and gained recognition among the film giants of Africa. 

A short drama about a young dropped out of school woman who lives with her abusive boyfriend and pregnant with their second baby, is written and produced by Thomas Mpoeleng and directed by Esenaga Mbwe.

The film promotes awareness and dialogue surrounding gender based violence. 

“The thematic elements explored in Silent Screams resonate deeply within the context of current socio-cultural challenges. As we navigate a landscape marked by increasing cases of gender-based violence (GBV), the need for poignant narratives that challenge societal norms becomes ever more pressing,” Mbwe said in an interview. 

He said artistic endeavours such as film not only provided entertainment but were catalysts for social change, encouraging audiences to reflect on such pressing issues and fostering empathy toward the affected.

The award, Mbwe said represented a significant milestone for him and his team. 

“The award validates the worthiness of our narratives for a global audience, because by receiving this recognition, we are not only affirming the importance of our stories but also challenging the preconceived notions surrounding African cinema,” he said. 

He said the recognition honoured the creative efforts of Batswana filmmakers as well as highlighting the significant cultural narratives presented in Botswana. 

He further added that it emphasised the capability of Batswana filmmakers and the film industry to produce works that met global standards.

“In an increasingly interconnected world, it is essential to understand that stories from Botswana can resonate universally, reflecting shared human experiences and emotions. This award serves as evidence that our creative expressions have a place on the international stage,” he noted.

Mbwe said it was crucial for filmmakers to adopt a global mindset when approaching storytelling and film production. 

As filmmakers from Africa, he said they must strive to elevate their craft and aim for excellence that could compete with international productions.

 He said their commitment to quality not only enhanced their individual projects but also contributed to raising the profile of African cinema as a whole.

“Ultimately, winning the CANEX Feature Film Award paves the way for other creators in Botswana and across Africa to share their stories with a broader audience. 

This achievement serves as proof that exporting African narratives is not just possible, it is imperative. 

In doing so, we contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of global cinema while ensuring that African stories reach their rightful audiences,” Mbwe emphasised.

Mbwe said he was committed to not only entertain but also educate future generations about the importance of storytelling in shaping societal values. 

His commitment, he said extended beyond personal success noting ‘I feel a profound duty to elevate the creative arts in Africa as a whole. 

This initiative aligns with the growing recognition of African creative who are shaping global trends and driving economic growth’.  

He said aspiring filmmakers needed to be equipped with the right essential tools and resources to thrive within the competitive industry. 

Such collective efforts, he said would ensure that Botswana narratives were told authentically while contributing meaningfully to the global narrative landscape.

Silent Screams has showcased at the Botswana International Film Festival, where it got the award for Best Local Film and Best Actor by Lesego Madingwane in 2023.

The CANEX film festival is a prominent gathering of creative, potential investors, industry leaders, creative industry businesses and government representatives enabling business, networking and deal-making opportunities. 

Creative attending CANEX have opportunities to connect and engage with Africa and her diaspora’s leading voices in music, film, fashion, crafts, visual arts, literature, gaming, sports and more. END