Thus, the city and its international film festival have become a crucial meeting point, a place of exchange, and a crossroads for debates aimed at promoting an independent image of Africa, particularly in the world of cinema, this universal art and global communication medium.

The festival has thus equipped itself to become one of the epicenters of African cinematography. This eleventh edition stands as a loud and clear testimony to this. It marks a significant turning point with the programming of ten feature films and ten short films in official competition, reflecting the cultural richness, concerns, and aspirations of Africans through historical, cultural, and societal themes. These films have been recognized at major international festivals.

Moreover, this edition includes a significant roundtable discussion on gender and diversity, with contributions from researchers and cinema professionals. Another symposium will focus on documentary films about the Sahara and Bedouin life, a culturally and vitally important theme for several African countries.

Tributes will be paid to Angolan cinema, with the presence of the emblematic figure Zézé Gamboa, a renowned director and producer. Two tributes to female performances will also be presented, honoring the great Egyptian actress Rania Farid Chawki and the Moroccan actress Asmaa Khamlichi.

Other activities, including training workshops and a symposium on image education, are also scheduled.

The eleventh edition of the Dakhla International Film Festival thus aligns with current issues for the benefit of cinema and the African continent.