The Moroccan Cinematic Center's Support Committee for Film Festivals has finalized the distribution of grants for the current cycle, allocating a total budget of 26 million and 460 thousand dirhams to benefit 40 film festivals and events out of 55 applications submitted for funding. This substantial financial support underscores the commitment to promoting cinematic culture within the country.
The largest share of this support was awarded to the Marrakech International Film Festival, which received 12 million dirhams for its 23rd edition, representing nearly half of the total budget allocated for funding. Following closely was the National Film Festival in Tangier, which secured a grant of 7 million and 500 thousand dirhams, affirming its importance in the Moroccan film landscape.
According to a statement from the Moroccan Cinematic Center, the support committee convened in Rabat from July 21 to 23, where they listened to presentations from festival organizers before evaluating the applications and deciding on the distribution of funds. This process highlights the thorough consideration and assessment undertaken to ensure fair allocation of resources.
The list of beneficiaries includes several major cinematic events, such as the Tetouan Mediterranean Film Festival, which received 1 million and 200 thousand dirhams, and the International Women's Film Festival in Salé, which was awarded 1 million dirhams. Additionally, the Rabat International Author Cinema Festival obtained support totaling 800 thousand dirhams, while the Maghreb International Film Festival in Oujda received 480 thousand dirhams.
The grants extended to various film festivals across different regions of the kingdom, with support amounts ranging from 30 thousand to 300 thousand dirhams. These funds benefit events organized in cities like Zagora, Ouzoud, Nador, Agadir, Harhoura, Marrakech, Settat, Mirleft, Rabat, Sidi Kacem, Tangier, Casablanca, Saidia, Fez, Guelmim, Khouribga, Ouarzazate, Taza, Tiznit, Oujda, El Jadida, Azrou, Ifrane, and Tamesna. This wide distribution of funds illustrates the Center's dedication to fostering a vibrant film culture across all Moroccan regions.
The distribution of these grants reflects the Moroccan Cinematic Center's ongoing support for a broad network of film festivals, with a clear emphasis on significant national and international events that have received the lion's share of the financial envelope. In contrast, local and regional festivals have been granted varying amounts, ensuring a diverse support system for all cinematic expressions.
The support committee was chaired by Khadija Alami Al-Roussi and included members such as Sabah Al-Faisali, Malika Ma’a Al-Ainain, Asma Karimch, Iman Al-Masbahi, Ahmed Afash, Bouazza Bouchtawi, and Mohamed Al-Missi, showcasing a team of dedicated individuals committed to advancing Moroccan cinema.
As reported by alyaoum24.com.
