The European Union (EU) has announced financial support of over 195 million CFA francs (~$310,000) for the upcoming 29th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO), scheduled for February 22 to March 1, 2025.
EU Ambassador Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi made the announcement during a January 20 meeting with Burkina Faso’s Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Pingdwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo.
The news was distributed via press release on January 28. The EU support will fund several specific initiatives including infrastructure improvements at FESPACO headquarters and the Yennenga workshops site, the creation of 35 competition trophies, and two new prizes in the official competition, and at FESPACO Pro.
The funding will also support the previously announced exhibition of inspiring African cinema personalities. The funds arrive as FESPACO prepares to present 235 selected titles (shorts, features, series) from 1,351 submissions across 48 countries.
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