The European Film Festival 2024 concluded with a vibrant celebration at the Freetown City Council last night, spotlighting the transformative power of storytelling and championing women’s voices through cinema.
The European Union Delegation to Sierra Leone organized the festival for two weeks. It featured various activities, including masterclasses in acting and film production, networking sessions, and diverse film screenings. The event drew nearly 700 attendees to screenings at the Freetown City Council from 22 to 24 November 2024 and engaged 600 more through pop-up screenings across the city. To make cinema accessible to young audiences, the festival reached 1,600 primary school pupils through dedicated school screenings and hosted 150 children and adolescents at Don Bosco Fambul.
The opening ceremony on 22 November brought together government officials, filmmakers, and enthusiasts. EU Chargé d'Affaires Emilio Rossetti emphasized the power of storytelling:
“The European Film Festival provides an important platform to amplify stories that inspire, foster meaningful dialogue, and emphasize our collective commitment to equality, justice, and cultural understanding.”
Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs Dr. Isata Mahoi reflected on the role of storytelling in social change:
“Growing up, we used theatre to educate and inspire during challenging times. I deeply appreciate the EU’s initiative through this festival. Violence against women and girls remains a pervasive challenge. While laws are crucial, enforcement and safe spaces are equally important. With support from civil society, media, and our partners, we can achieve meaningful change.”
Robert Hilton Leigh, Assistant Director of Tourism, underscored the festival’s importance:
“Through collaborative efforts and platforms like this film festival, we continue to create opportunities for women to thrive and contribute equally to our nation's development.”
Representing the Sierra Leone Actors Guild, Zachariah Lloyd Sesay praised the festival:
“The EU Film Festival is a beacon of creativity and cultural exchange, uniting filmmakers to celebrate the art of storytelling. It showcases the transformative power of film.”
The festival’s conclusion on 24 November transitioned into the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, launched in collaboration with UNFPA and UNICEF. During the closing ceremony, EU Chargé d'Affaires Emilio Rossetti issued a call to action:
“Tonight, we celebrate the conclusion of this inspiring festival, but we also mark the beginning of a campaign that demands action. Ending violence against women and girls is a responsibility we all share.”
Nadia Rasheed, UNFPA Country Representative, highlighted the role of the arts in breaking the silence surrounding gender-based violence:
“Violence is not inevitable; it is preventable. One of the biggest challenges is the culture of silence. Platforms like this festival are critical in raising awareness and encouraging action.”
UNICEF Country Representative Rudolf Schwenk added:
“Cinema is a powerful tool for change, particularly in Sierra Leone, where cultural narratives shape realities. It inspires dialogue, changes behaviors, and fosters understanding about the experiences of women and girls.”
Featuring a curated selection of films from Sierra Leone, Africa, and Europe, the festival aligned with the EU’s Amplifying Women’s Voices campaign and broader gender program, which aims to advance women’s rights and combat gender-based violence.
The European Film Festival 2024 was more than a celebration of cinema—it was a rallying cry for equality, justice, and change.
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