Dakhla (refugee camps), May 6, 2012 (SPS) - Works and activities of the ninth edition of the Sahara International Film Festival, known as FiSahara, held current May 2-6 in the Wilaya of Dakhla wrapped out late last night, where it marked by a remarkable participation by international cinema figures and media representatives.
Closing ceremony marked by speeches by Saharawi officials, representative of foreign delegations as well as filmmakers and directors participating at the Festival. In addition, the best three films awarded with prizes.
Addressing FiSahara participants at the closing ceremony, Minister of Culture Ms. Khadija Hamdi appreciated the spirit of communication characterized works of the FiSahara 2012, expressing her gratitude to the authorities and masses of Dakhla for the good preparation and management of this edition.
She pointed out that the cinema in Western Sahara has concluded a decade, calling for doubling all the efforts to promote and develop this sector.
Mr. Guillermo Rocha, who represents Mexico FiSahara 2012 guest of honour, said that the Festival “was an opportunity to aware about importance of the struggle and fight waged by the Saharawi people,” confirming determination to support the Saharawi people’s struggle for independence.
From his part, Director of Algerian Cinema Centre Mr. Elias reiterated Algeria’s firm position to support the struggle of the Saharawi people, saying “Algeria will remain with the Saharawi people today and tomorrow.”
Director of International Relations in South African Culture Ministry expressed determination of his country to supporting the Saharawi people until enjoying freedom and independence.
About 24 long films and large number of short films made by Saharawi and foreign directors have been screened in the 9th edition of FiSahara.
Various international filmmakers, writers, musicians and journalist have stayed for five days with Saharawi families and visited clinics, schools and municipal offices in the camps, where they could learn a lot about daily life of the Saharawi refugees.
The project is run by the Coordination of Associations of Solidarity with Western Sahara (CEAS), in collaboration with the Saharawi Ministry of Culture. (SPS)
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