The Togolese Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Arts recently convened a meeting with professionals in the country's cinema and audiovisual industry to discuss the country's participation in the 30th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO). Scheduled to take place from March 20-27, 2027, in Burkina Faso, the event will feature Togo as the guest of honour. The meeting, presided over by Minister Isaac Tchiakpé, aimed to outline the festival's key aspects and define the framework for collaboration.
During the meeting, which took place on October 8, 2026, in Lomé, stakeholders discussed the special program dedicated to Togo, conditions for participation, and the selection process for Togolese films. The event also covered accreditation, logistics, and organization of the Togolese delegation, as well as opportunities for collaboration. Minister Tchiakpé emphasized the importance of collective mobilization to make the most of this opportunity, highlighting the need for a well-prepared participation to showcase Togolese cinema.
The designation of Togo as guest of honour at FESPACO 2027 is seen as a significant recognition of the country's cinema industry. Minister Tchiakpé stressed that this presents a chance to promote Togolese talents, stories, and creativity. He urged stakeholders to use this event as a lever to strengthen the country's film industry sustainably, focusing on areas such as training, production, financing, and distribution.
Alex Moussa Sawadogo, Director-General of the Burkinabé Agency for Cinematography and Audiovisual, led the FESPACO delegation. He noted that Togo's status as guest of honour necessitates a special presentation to authorities and stakeholders, highlighting the good artistic relations between Togo and Burkina Faso. Sawadogo also mentioned that the festival's theme, "African Cinema and Endogenous Development," will feature discussions on the current and future state of African cinema.
The FESPACO 2027 event will include ceremonies, reflection spaces, and discussions on African knowledge and the cinema industry. As guest of honour, Togo's cinema industry will be in the spotlight at one of Africa's largest film festivals. This provides an opportunity for Togolese filmmakers to gain international exposure and recognition.
Minister Tchiakpé reiterated his department's commitment to working with the cinema industry to increase the visibility of Togolese talents. He emphasized the need for collective organization and action to achieve this goal. The minister's engagement with stakeholders demonstrates the government's support for the country's cinema industry.
The meeting with stakeholders marked an important step in preparing for Togo's participation in FESPACO 2027. With a well-planned strategy and collective effort, Togo aims to make a meaningful impact at the festival and promote its cinema industry to a wider audience. The event will provide a platform for Togolese filmmakers to showcase their work and engage with the international film community.
Key points
- Togo to participate in FESPACO 2027 as guest of honour
- The country's cinema industry to benefit from increased international exposure
- Stakeholders discuss preparations and strategies for a successful participation
