Ouagadougou: The directors of cinematography from the member countries of the UEMOA and Guinea Conakry began a meeting in Ouagadougou aimed at coordinating public policies and examining the creation of joint projects, particularly in terms of co-production and financing. Participants will discuss the possibility of creating a regional fund to support cinema, developing a common market for the distribution of works, and promoting new forms of storytelling adapted to African realities.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Director General of the Burkinabe Agency for Cinematography and Audiovisual, Alex Moussa Sawadogo, stated that the meeting aims to harmonize public policies, pool resources and consider the implementation of joint projects, particularly in terms of co-production and financing. "It allows us to review the entire film industry policy, its management policy, its financing methods, and also to review all the mechanisms that contribute to the development of our film industry," he explained.

For the chief of staff of the minister in charge of culture, Mr. Sy Christian Ouattara, representing the minister, this initiative aims to create favorable conditions for the emergence of solid film industries in the sub-region. "It aims to be a framework for consultation between public organizations in charge of cinemas, for in-depth reflection on ways to strengthen sub-regional cooperation in the field of film and audiovisual media, for pooling our resources and expertise, and for harmonizing our public policies regarding the promotion of the film and audiovisual sector," he declared.

He also stressed that cinema is a tool for cultural development and an important economic lever for African states. Faced with challenges related to financing, infrastructure and market access, the participating States intend to formulate concrete recommendations to strengthen sub-regional cooperation.

The work should lead to the adoption of a joint declaration aimed at boosting the African film industry.