For over 20 years, ICAPA Trust has organized the International Images Film Festival for Women (IIFF), bringing the best filmmakers to Harare, Zimbabwe. It’s last edition held between November 28, 2023 and December 2, 2023, was its second after an enforced COVID-19 break in 2021. 

The founder of the festival Tsitsi Dangarembga described it as a great achievement, owing to the state of the film industry in Zimbabwe. She also provided an in depth look into the event, what they learned from it and how they can strategize for more success.

What are your reflections on the 20th edition of the festival?

I was very happy that ICAPA Trust was able to hold IIFF 2023 because that was the second year running after we came back from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022. It's not always a given that money will be raised because first of all, the industry in Zimbabwe is in a very elementary stage for several reasons but the lack of political will is the main reason, which means that the industry is not structured in a way that enables its growth. So being able to do anything at a reasonably professional level that is connected with film in Zimbabwe at the moment, under those conditions, is a great achievement. Having said that, of course, there's always room for improvement. 

Interviews with our award winners by YAZA Africa

Appoline Traore   Steffi Niederzoll   Derrick Manieca  Adila Bendimerad

Cindy Lee   Sana N'Hada   Binette Undonque  York-Fabian Raabe 

IIFF 2023 ends with great success

IIFF 2023 in Bulawayo

Pre-Festival Press Release