The Urusaro International Women Film Festival, which concluded at Century Cinema on Friday, June 7, celebrated outstanding female filmmakers from across the globe with the best films that highlight women's stories.

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A total of 96 films from around the world were selected for screening during the weeklong festival and, ultimately, after thorough evaluation by a three-judge panel, 64 films were given a nod and awarded.

The best feature film was ‘Maputo Nakuzandza’ directed by Mozambican filmmaker Ariadine Zampaulo. She was awarded ‘Agaseke Gold’ prize which goes to the overall winner in the festival.

The winning film is a fiction about contemporary life in Maputo. The blending of the film, with characters mostly women, focused on women&039;s issues.

"This is a women-centric film festival. We were looking for films produced and directed by women. Even if a film was made by men, the story had to revolve around women's stories. Overall, it was about the quality of the production,” said Mutiganda wa Nkunda, a jury member

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Mutiganda further said that the festival advocates for women joining the industry and making films, adding, "It is not easy in this male-dominated industry, but the workshops and opportunities provided by Urusaro are making a difference. And more women are increasing either in acting roles, behind cameras and production and directing. Improvement has been really done.”

Ines Girihirwe, one of female filmmakers who was also jury member said lauded the festival, which is in its 8th edition, as it continues to play a significant role in raising awareness about women's issues.

"The cinema industry is a budding industry in Rwanda and promising. The festival's influence is already visible, more women are in the industry, they are no longer afraid to talk and highlight girls’ issues in their everyday lives even if they are sensitive,” Girihirwe said

"A Rwandan female director’s film ‘The Bride’ has been screened worldwide and won a premiere prize at Berlin International Film Festival in Berlin and other several awards, this can be courageous and interesting for filmmakers, and there is a lot we can expect in the future which I think is promising.”

Among the Rwandan films that were featured in the festival include ‘Each of Her Scars Has a Story’ which was awarded as the best documentary and ‘The Bishop’ which was awarded as the best series.

Roger Niyoyita, who directs ‘The Bishop,’ said that he did not see it coming as he just submitted like everyone else.

"In a festival, you never know what to expect, there were many movies from around the world in this competition, and I'm really excited that we won,” he said.

"Following other awards, we have won so far, it is really encouraging. We initially created this series for Rwandan audiences, but now it's gaining international recognition. Being acknowledged motivates us to continue producing excellent work."

"This festival's focus on promoting women is fantastic, and we now see more women in the industry, delivering impactful performances, which is really positive,” he added.

The cinema industry is evolving, driven by efforts to promote women's stories and support female filmmakers. Through Urusaro International Women festival is one of initiatives that aim to increase women's participation and representation in this traditionally male-dominated field.