The 26th edition of the International Festival of African Cinema in Khouribga (FICAK) concluded recently, celebrating the vibrancy of African cinema. The festival, held in the Moroccan city of Khouribga, served as a platform for filmmakers, producers, and critics to engage in meaningful discussions while showcasing notable films.
Hind Rajab’s Voice Triumphs at FICAK 2026
This year, the festival honored the Tunisian film “La voix de Hind Rajab,” directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, with the prestigious Grand Prize “Ousmane Sembene.” This recognition solidified its place among a highly competitive selection of films.
A Diverse Celebration of African Cinema
- Grand Prize Winner: “La voix de Hind Rajab” – Kaouther Ben Hania (Tunisia)
- Jury Prize “Nourredine Saïl”: “The Settlement” – Mohamed Rashad (Egypt)
- Best Director “Idrissa Ouédraogo”: Ali Benjelloun for “Goundafa, The Cursed Song” (Morocco)
- Best Screenplay “Samir Farid”: “La mémoire du manguier” – Nicolas Sawolo Cissé (Senegal)
- Best Actress: Michelle Lemuya Ikeny for “Nawi dear future me” (Kenya)
- Best Actor: Younes Bouab for “L’Héritier des secrets” (Morocco)
- Short Film Grand Prize “Najib Ayed”: “Another End” – Tarik Rasmi (Morocco)
- Jury Prize for Short Films “Paulin Soumanou Vieyra”: “Anima” – Boubecrine Ibrahim El Mamy (Mauritania)
Honoring Icons of African Cinema
The festival also featured a poignant tribute to Bassek Ba Kobhio, a prominent Cameroonian filmmaker and founder of the Écrans Noirs festival. His dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting cinema across Africa was recognized by attendees.
Looking Ahead: The Future of African Cinema
Festival director Iz-eddine Gourirran praised the rich programming and diversity of the showcased works. He highlighted the importance of films aimed at younger audiences and the professional networking opportunities available throughout the festival.
Judges Alex Moussa Sawadogo and Abdelilah El Jaouhary emphasized the artistic quality of the competing films, remarking on contemporary African cinema’s ability to address universal themes while rooted in the continent’s unique contexts and identities.
Through a week filled with inspiring stories, FICAK once again showcased the resilience and creativity of filmmakers from across Africa, affirming that the continent’s cinema continues to thrive.
