20th Anniversary of the Amazigh Film Festival in Agadir
The curtains closed on the evening of Monday, October 6, 2026, marking the conclusion of the 17th edition of the International Amazigh Film Festival Issni N’Ourgh (FINIFA) held in Agadir. This year’s festival was particularly significant as it celebrated two decades of showcasing Amazigh culture through film. The closing ceremony was a vibrant affair, featuring awards presented to outstanding works across various competitions, alongside tributes to influential figures who have significantly contributed to the promotion of Amazigh heritage.
The film "Goundafa – The Cursed Song," directed by Ali Benjelloun, emerged as the standout winner of the Amazigh competition, claiming the prestigious Grand Prix Issni N’Ourgh. Furthermore, the film excelled in individual performance categories, with Fatima Afif receiving the award for Best Actress, while the Best Actor award was shared between Farouk Aznabet and Abdellatif Atif. This recognition highlights the exceptional talent within the Amazigh film community and the rich narratives being explored.
In the international competition, the award for Best Direction was awarded to Egyptian filmmaker Morad Mostafa for his film "Aisha Can’t Fly Away." Additionally, the Indian film "Ha Lyngkha Bneng – The Elysian Field," directed by Pradip Kurbah, not only secured the Best Screenplay award but also won a collective award for male performances. This diversity in recognition underscores the festival’s commitment to highlighting global cinematic excellence while fostering cultural exchange.
National Culture Film Competition
The competition for the National Amazigh Culture Award, organized in collaboration with the Royal Institute of Amazigh Culture (IRCAM), featured six films that showcased the contributions of national cinema in celebrating and promoting Amazigh culture. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced on October 14, coinciding with the commemoration of the Royal Speech of Ajdir at a ceremony to be held at IRCAM's headquarters in Rabat. This year’s FINIFA brought together a total of 30 films from 18 countries and territories, including 14 Moroccan productions, thus emphasizing the festival's role as a platform for both local and international filmmakers.
The official competition dedicated to Amazigh films included ten works that delved into themes of memory, identity, and the evolving social and cultural landscape. Similarly, the international segment showcased ten films representing various countries, including France, the United States, India, Argentina, Egypt, and Italy. Additionally, five special screenings outside the competition allowed audiences to engage with diverse artistic approaches and sensitivities.
During the closing ceremony, a special tribute was paid to Hélène E. Hagan, an anthropologist and founder of the Los Angeles Amazigh Film Festival, recognizing her dedication to promoting Amazigh cinema and culture. The festival program also included numerous meetings that brought together cinema professionals and the public, alongside tributes to several individuals who have significantly enriched the Amazigh cultural and artistic scene.
This anniversary edition, organized in partnership with the Souss-Massa Regional Council, the municipality of Agadir, and IRCAM, reinforced the FINIFA's mission to serve as a meeting point for Amazigh cinema and cultural diversity. Through its programming, competitions, and networking opportunities, the festival aims to continue its vital role in promoting Amazigh cinematic works and preserving the vibrant Amazigh cultural identity.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
