A decade, going forward : (JCFA) Cinema Days of African Women of the Moving Image - Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine

A decade, going forward : (JCFA) Cinema Days of African Women of the Moving Image - Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine

The Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - JCFA (Cinema Days of African Women of the Moving Image)  was launched in 2010 under the auspices of FESPACO. The event takes place every two years alternating with FESPACO--thus providing African women stakeholders in cinema a visible presence. Its objective is to promote African women in the cinematic landscape, to examine the challenges that they face in the profession, and to network and establish lasting relationships with other festivals of its kind around the world. The JCFA takes place in the form of a gala though no prizes are awarded. The selected films, however, receive participation trophies called "the Sarraounia".

Burkinabé Laurentine Bayala, filmmaker, film activist and organizer, who also is one of the JCFA journalists who covers the festival events, had this to say:

"I think it's a great initiative that also promotes women's work…It an opportunity for women to discuss the many challenges in cinema. The festival has as objective to promote African films made by women."

***

2010 - The first edition, which launched the JCFA, took place from 3 to 7 March 2010 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

2012 - The second edition of the JCFA was held 3 to 8 March 2012 in Ouagadougou and Dédougou, Burkina Faso, around the theme "Women, cinema and professional training". In addition to the objectives highlighted in the theme, the goal of African women in cinema is to effect change in societal norms that impede their development, and to work towards a real future for African women in this milieu.

2014 - The third edition of the JCFA was held from 3 to 7 March 2014 in Ouagadougou and Banfora, host of the International Women's Day celebrations.  There were a variety of screenings, workshops, and symposia around the theme “Women’s Cinemas in Africa”.
Follow link for the announcement on the African Women in Cinema Blog:
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2014/02/la-3eme-edition-des-journees.html

2016 - The fourth edition of the JCFA, under the theme, "the actress in the creation of African cinema" took place in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso from 3 to 7 March 2016.
Follow link on the report by Laurentine Bayala on the African Women in Cinema Blog:
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2016/03/report-by-compte-rendu-par-laurentine.html

2018 - The fifth edition of the JCFA, held from 2 to 7 March 2018, in Ouagadougou, focused on the theme "the African woman professional meeting the challenges of the digital age". The event included film screenings, a panel on the theme and training workshops on acting, shooting and digital editing.
Follow links on African Women in Cinema Blog of the three-part report compiled by Editor in Chief Laurentine Bayala:
Report - Part III: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2018/03/report-part-iii-journees.html

Report - Part II: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2018/03/report-part-ii-journees.html

Report - Part I: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2018/03/report-part-i-journees.html

2020 - The sixth edition of the JCFA, was held in Ouagadougou from 2 to 7 March 2020 under the theme, “Cinema, Gender and Fighting Violence Against Women”. The theme is a follow up of the revelations at the FESPACO in 2019 during which at a gathering of women the discussion of harassment and violence against women professional within the cinema industry.
Follow links on the African Women in Cinema Blog:
Of the announcement of JCFA 2020
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2020/03/journees-cinematographiques-de-la-femme.html
At #Metoo and FESPACO
https://africanwomenincinema.blogspot.com/2019/02/memepaspeur-nothing-to-fear-metoo.html

Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - JCFA 2020 (Cinema Days of African Women of the Moving Image) Burkina Faso

Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - JCFA 2020 (Cinema Days of African Women of the Moving Image) Burkina Faso

Le Festival panafricain du cinéma et de la télévision de Ouagadougou (FESPACO) organise du 02 au 07 mars 2020, la 6e édition des Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme africaine de l’Image (JCFA), sous le thème : « Cinéma, genre et lutte contre les violences faites aux femmes».

Cette manifestation cinématographique est dédiée aux professionnelles du cinéma et de l’audiovisuel. Elle est née de la synergie de plusieurs volontés : celles des femmes professionnelles africaines de l’image, du Festival Panafricain du Cinéma et de la Télévision de Ouagadougou (FESPACO), de nos partenaires et particulièrement du gouvernement burkinabè.

Au cours de cette édition, des projections de films, un atelier en image, son et montage, des panels et expositions offriront l’opportunité d’échanger sur les problématiques liées à la profession cinématographique et audiovisuelle de la femme africaine de l’image.

The 6th edition of Cinema Days of African Women of the Moving Image (JCFA), organized by the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) runs from 2-7 March 2020 under the theme: "Cinema, gender and fighting violence against women”.

This cinematographic event is dedicated to film and audiovisual professionals. It was born from the results of several enthusiastic parties coming together: African women professionals of the moving image, the Panafrican Festival of Cinema and Television of Ouagadougou (FESPACO), other partners and particularly the Burkinabè government.

During this edition, film screenings, a visual, sound and editing workshop, panels and exhibitions, will offer the opportunity to discuss issues related to the film and audiovisual profession of the African woman of the moving image.

CATALOGUE: https://www.fichier-pdf.fr/2020/02/28/catalogue-jcfa-2020-site-web/

« Cinéma, genre et lutte contre les violences faites aux femmes »

Nos mères, nos épouses et nos filles n’abdiquent pas dans le combat pour arracher et acquérir plus de droits. Cela est tout-à-fait légitime dans nos sociétés où règnent encore tant d’hy- pocrisies et de mépris dans la reconnaissance de la valeur des femmes. Comme si cela ne suffisait pas, elles sont parfois rabaissées en subissant des viols sexuels. Quoique constituant plus de la moitié de la population mondiale, elles ont de plus en plus le sentiment de ne pas être à la place qu’elles méritent. Face aux cumulatives frustrations, résignations et sous-estimations, elles ont envie de crier encore et encore leur ras-le-bol. Aussi, aujourd’hui plus qu’hier, se rebiffent-elles contre les silences pesants et complaisants ou autres déconsidérations multiples subies. Actuellement elles crèvent l’écran médiatique à travers des manifestations, des réseaux et des débats. Il est plus que temps de se structurer et de s’organiser pour se dresser contre ces faits avilissants. Afin que la femme ait un positionnement politique, économique, social et culturel plus juste, ou que cessent les violences sexuelles, les professionnelles africaines du cinéma s’indignent. Ces créatrices sont bien au fait de ces réalités dégradantes dans leur milieu professionnel ainsi que de leur vulnérabilité face aux harcèlements sexuels persistants. C’est donc en toute conscience et compétence que la cinéaste africaine voudrait davantage crever le plafond de verre, en vue de l’amélioration statutaire des femmes rurales et citadines. Opportunités stratégiques de partage d’expériences, les JCFA 2020 braquent sa « caméra cinématographique » sur cette double problématique du genre et des violences sexuelles faites aux femmes. Cette 6e édition permettra certainement d’évaluer quantitativement et qualitativement les productions filmiques existantes en lien avec le thème de la présente session. Dans quelle mesure les échanges et débats pourraient enrichir les cinéastes pour leurs productions futures? Le cinéma est-il un moyen pertinent de pression, pouvant influer la gouvernance des leaders de tous ordres ? Comment l’utiliser afin que son impact sur les masses puissent mettre définitivement débout les femmes, au bénéfice de leurs droits et de leur intégrité physique ?

“Cinema, Gender and Fighting Violence Against Women”

Our mothers, wives and daughters are not giving up the fight for more rights. This is quite legitimate in our societies where there is still so much hypocrisy and contempt in recognizing the va- lue of women. As if that were not enough, they are sometimes belittled through sexual abuse. Although they account for more than half of world’s population, increasingly women feel not being in the place they deserve. Faced with so much frustration, resignation and misjudgement, they feel like voicing out their discontent. Today, more than in the past, they are showing their dissent against the deafening and complacent silence or other forms of discredit suffered. Today, they are present on the media through demonstrations, networks and debates, for the time has come to organize and stand against such demeaning practices. African female film professionals are standing up for women to enjoy a fairer political, economic, social and cultural positioning as well to halt sexual violence. These talented creators are fully aware of such degrading realities in their work place, as well as being vulnerable to persisting sexual harassment. In good conscience and competent, the African female filmmaker would like to further shatter the glass ceiling for all women, rural and urban, to enjoy a better status.

As a strategic opportunity for sharing experiences, JCFA 2020 is flashing the light on the dual issue of gender and sexual violence against women. This 6th Edition will certainly provide an opportunity to assess, quantitatively and qualitatively, existing film productions with respect to the edition’s theme. To what extent exchanges and debates could inspire filmmakers in their future productions? Is cinema a relevant tool of pressure that can influence the governance of leaders at any scales? How can it be used so that its impact on masses can help women stand stronger for their rights and their physical integrity?

Appel à candidature - atelier de formation : 6e édition (2020) des Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine de l’image (JCFA)

Appel à candidature - atelier de formation : 6e édition (2020) des Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine de l’image (JCFA) 

A l'occasion de la 6e édition des Journées cinématographiques de la Femme africaine de l’image (JCFA) qui se tiendra du 02 au 07 mars 2020, un atelier de formation sur les techniques de prise de vues, de son et le montage numérique est organisé du lundi 02 mars au jeudi 05 mars 2020 à l’Institut supérieur de l’Image et du Son/Studio Ecole (ISIS/SE) à l’intention des femmes. Toutes celles qui sont intéressées peuvent s'inscrire au siège du FESPACO du lundi au vendredi de 8 heures à 16 

heures FESPACO.

Pour toute information veuillez contacter Monsieur Marc Placide SANOU au 76420530/ 71893336.

Le nombre de place est limité à 15.

Date limite d’inscription : Vendredi 28 février 2020 à 16 heures.

https://www.fichier-pdf.fr/2020/02/24/appel-a-candidature-jcfa-2020-2/

Report - Part III: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018

Part III - FROM THE JCFA NEWS No. 3

Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image African Women Image Makers Cinema Days, Ouagadougou 02 to 07 March 2018

Editor in Chief, Laurentine Bayala

Contributors : Rachelle Bengnime Some,

Photographer : Saïba Baguian

Journées cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’image (JCFA) 2018 - African Women Image Makers Cinema Days - Ouagadougou

Part I

Part II

Part III

Translation from French by Beti Ellerson

The close of the 5th edition of the JCFA

The lanterns went out on Wednesday 7 March 2018 for the 5th edition of the Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’Image. At the official closing ceremony at CENASA the Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism was in attendance along with numerous personalities and a large public to celebrate the women of the moving image who met the challenge, despite the difficult environment following recent attacks in Ouagadougou.

Speeches, trophy presentation, musical performance by Sister Doga, the closing film, were the highlights of the closing ceremony of the JCFA. According to the General Delegate of FESPACO: "This edition has made its mark. Apart from the opening ceremony, all the activities were carried out as planned, which are highlighted in this closing ceremony of the JCFA", thanks to the courage of these women to whom he paid tribute. For these women of the moving image, by continuing the festival, they sent a strong signal to the world. For their representative Naky Sy Savané "when the African woman stands, Africa moves forward", imploring the authorities that every effort should be made to further promote the JCFA. The Minister of Arts, Culture and Tourism was not indifferent to this message. On behalf of the Government, he congratulated and thanked them for this support. "You are more than sympathetic to our pain. You testify that Burkina Faso is still standing with its friends," he said. During the ceremony, film pioneer Aminata Ouedraogo-Bagayoko and actress Naky Sy Savané received tribute trophies. A minute of silence was observed in memory of the filmmaker Idrissa Ouedraogo and the soldiers who lost their lives during the 2 March terrorist attacks in Ouagadougou.

Bengnime Rachelle Some

Arice Siapi "Every time I come to Burkina Faso, I learn"

Arice SIAPI wears several hats. Promoter of the international multicultural film festival of Ngaoundere, she is also a filmmaker and producer. All this energy that she invests in cinema comes from her love for Ngaoundere, located 900 km from the capital of Cameroon: "My region is isolated from the bustling film culture of the major cities. Moreover, there is no meeting place between professionals. That is why I created this festival.”

Founded in 2009, the multicultural film festival gave her “luck” as there were few opportunities to excel in her art. Through the festival initiatives she was offered training in Europe to strengthen her skills after the screening of her film. Her experiences leads her to the conclusion that cinema is a profession where only the brave ones succeed: "you have to have willpower and tenacity.”

Now she wants to restructure the organisation of her festival to ensure its international reputation. FESPACO and the JCFA already inspire it. She intends to energise and mobilise women around cinematic activities in her native country: "Whenever I come to Burkina Faso, I learn something, even if the realities are not the same. This is the second time that I have attended the JCFA. I realise that there is work to be done at the level of women filmmakers in my country. I'm going to do outreach to women and women's associations so that we can get together to help each other.”

Arice Siapi, who has been an enthusiastic attendee of FESPACO since 2011, received the support of the General Delegate and the head of the festival department. In 2017 they made the trip to Ngaoundéré in order enhance the profile of her festival.

From her point of view, the film industry in Cameroon is in full bloom with the production of television series. However, part of the problem lies with the lack of screenwriters in cinema, because the scenarios tend to focus on telefilms.

By Laurentine Bayala

Au fantôme du père [To the ghost of the father] by Marie Laurentine Bayala: "Dad, where are you"

In this documentary, the director follows the path of mixed-race Franco-Burkinabe, Claire Lagedemond in her journey of identity to find her father, whom she has not seen since childhood. Born in Côte d’Ivoire, she grew up in the village. In Burkina, with her non-literate grandmother, she is now more than 40 years old and determined to find the father who for her has become a ghost. Also, Claire fights to prevent this same situation from happening to her son whose father is also absent. In this film, one has the impression of being transported into an investigation that goes from Ouagadougou to Abidjan, of which we absolutely want to know the outcome. All the ingredients seem to come together: A strong character, suspense and even a dose of humour. The other fact is that the film embodies the message taking the form of a filmed letter intended for the ghost-father. A message that will certainly be carried around the world and which may touch "Mr. Roger". Finally, "this film is an example of a woman’s courage and tenacity, despite her painful journey. It is Claire’s positivity that allowed us to believe in this project, which is now a reality", Laurentine Bayala said to an audience, that through their silence, laughter and comments was very touched by this story. The same is true of the committed production team that took nearly eight years to meet the challenge to see it to fruition. Claire is still pursuing her research. She has since found photographs of her parents. "This information could help to open the path in the hope of filming the reunion between father and daughter," the director hopes.

By Bengnime Rachelle Some

The 5th edition of JCFA closes its doors Wednesday, 7 March 2018. What were the filmgoers’ reactions to the films?

Camille Delevigne, teacher

I was able to attend two sessions at CENASA: a documentary on the rape of women, and a film from Mozambique. I really liked these films that touched on the historical realities of Mozambique and the situation in the DRC regarding the rape of women. We are comforted by the extraordinary work of Dr. Dénis Mukwenge, who we discovered through the magic of the image. We would have liked more people to see these kinds of film that deal with important issues.

Séré Madina, student

This is our first time coming to the JCFA. We came to see the film equipment in the gallery booths. We were able to operate some of the gear and it was really interesting. For the films, I was able to view a documentary on the women who fight everyday to succeed in life.

Ms. Isabelle Ouedraogo, cinephile

Thanks to the JCFA, I was able to see Frontières, a film that I was hoping to see for a long time. I enjoyed the acting and the theme. This film plunges us into the world of these dynamic women entrepreneurs through their experiences and their difficulties. They acted well and I congratulate them. I was able to meet and converse with Naky Sy Savané one of the actresses of the film. Frontières pays tribute to women especially at the eve of March 8th.

Love stronger than bullets

The train D 67 is leaving for Malawi. Will they arrive at their destination despite the soldier escort, which accompanies their movements since the war broke out in the country? Le train de sel et de sucre [The train of salt and sugar], a poignant film during which the characters are gradually revealed as the old and slow moving locomotive enters an increasingly hostile space rumbling with weapons. Despite the crackling of the bullets, a love story is born between nurse Rosa and a soldier, as if to say that love will always triumph over hatred, which is the source of war. How does one talk about the suspense that reaches its climax, when in the middle of the forest the train conductor discovers a skull planted on the rails ... It is a metaphor for life where despite obstacles, one must never abandon ones dreams. This Mozambican film by Licinio Azevedo, won the Golden Tanit at the Carthage Film Festival in Tunisia in 2017.

By Laurentine Bayala

Liens | Links :

Rencontre avec Laurentine Bayala

A Conversation with Laurentine Bayala

Report - Part I: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018

Mis Me Binga 2018 – Laurentine Bayala : Au fantôme du père | To the Ghost of the Father (Burkina Faso)

Report by | Compte rendu par Laurentine Bayala : JCFA 2016 - Film Festival of African Women | Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - Burkina Faso

Laurentine Bayala : Elections couplées de 2012, les femmes burkinabé en marche | Coupled Elections of 2012, Burkinabe Women on the Move

Report - Part II: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018

Part II - FROM THE JCFA NEWS No. 2

Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image African Women Image Makers Cinema Days, Ouagadougou 02 to 07 March 2018

Editor in Chief, Laurentine Bayala

Contributors : Rachelle Bengnime Some,

Photographer : Saïba Baguian

Journées cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’image (JCFA) 2018 - African Women Image Makers Cinema Days - Ouagadougou

Part I

Part II

Part III

Translation from French by Beti Ellerson

The 5th edition of the Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image (JCFA): the theme “The African woman professional meeting the challenges of the digital age”. According to the responses of some professionals, this is a timely theme. Digital technology is a tool that should be of great assistance to women.

Claire Diao, distributor

For the distributor the medium itself is the challenge, how to render on the screen the same good quality in terms of what was shot. As a distributor this is important because it incurs costs. Should it be distributed in DCP, on DVD, Blue Ray, using a USB stick? There is also the issue of sending the files. What do we do when we send a USB stick that never arrives, when sending a link to be downloaded and then there is the complaint that there is not a good Internet connection. I think that there are solutions, means to be devised so that the films can circulate, otherwise, films will be made and it will be impossible to diffuse them even in the digital age.

Kadi Sanogo, filmmaker

Nowadays, digital technology is in the process of taking the lead, facilitating the work of professionals in the film. If we look in our countries, as more and more films are being made every year, because of the accessibility of digital technology, the equipment is light and the cost is lower. It is therefore the moment to seize this opportunity in order to develop the cinema culture; however there needs to be training to better adapt to it.

Georgette Paré, actress

The advent of digital technology has triggered a kind of disruption. This is a boon to cinema in light of the possibilities that this technology offers. We were even lead to believe that with this tool, we would not be unemployed, which is not the case. It is true that it is accessible, that anyone can make images, but should this be considered compared to actual films? Things must be restructured; in order to know this technology better and to take advantage of it as it should be done.

By Bengnime Rachelle Some

A gallery where you get to to see cameras

Different types of cameras are exposed at the l’Institut de l’Image et du Son. Whether old or the latest trend, these tools are unveiled to the public for a better understanding of their attributes. Known as the "Galerie ciné équipement" [Cinema Equipment Gallery], this initiative aims to create exhibition and marketing spaces for film production equipment.

Film professionals and the public have the opportunity to revisit the evolution of the film camera and photo camera over time. They also have the possibility of having their devices repaired thanks to the technicians who are on site. Since the opening of the stands of the "Galerie ciné équipement", students from the city of Ouagadougou have been able to satisfy their curiosity by operating the rails or cranes. In addition to this moment of discovery, there is an impromptu workshop that allows young professionals to have feedback on their film projects: "it is an opportunity to have the point of view and the advice of Guy Désiré Yaméogo, a expert in screenwriting. This feedback will allow them to work through blockages" explains Mamounata Nikièma the initiator of the gallery.

She hopes to repeat this initiative at the fiftieth anniversary of FESPACO if the targeted audience shows interest in the event.

By Laurentine Bayala

"Tes cheveux démêlés cachent une guerre de sept ans’’ [Your untangled hair hides a seven-year war], the third documentary feature film by Algerian Fatima Sissani

"Tes cheveux démêlés cachent une guerre de sept ans’’ is the third documentary feature film by Algerian director Fatima Sissani. Released in 2017, the film tells the story of three women involved in the National Liberation Front (FLN). "Why did you become involved in Algeria's independence by joining the FLN?" This question was asked to Zoulikah Bekkadour, Alice Cherki and Eveline Safir Lavalette who decided to fight against the colonisation of Algeria in their youth. Silent for years, today, they agree to revisit colonial Algeria and convey the "secrets" of their fight. A fight, which according to them "is above all a duty of all citizens". Through newspapers, archival photos, nostalgic music, everything, the portrait of these three women brings us closer to understanding the war, the pangs of colonization, segregation, racism, anti-Semitism. Despite the clandestine activities, prison, torture, the psychiatric hospital, nothing could stop the determination of these fighters. An act of resistance hailed by the public who were touched by the experience of these women. One of the filmgoers says in this regard that this part of the history of Algeria is a landmark and must inspire the youth facing the new form of colonisation that Africa is presenting living. Thanks to the documentary, the venture has been won for the director who wants to revisit the history and preserve the memory of her country.

By Bengnime Rachelle Some

Liens | Links :

Rencontre avec Laurentine Bayala

A Conversation with Laurentine Bayala

Report - Part I: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018

Mis Me Binga 2018 – Laurentine Bayala : Au fantôme du père | To the Ghost of the Father (Burkina Faso)

Report by | Compte rendu par Laurentine Bayala : JCFA 2016 - Film Festival of African Women | Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - Burkina Faso

Laurentine Bayala : Elections couplées de 2012, les femmes burkinabé en marche | Coupled Elections of 2012, Burkinabe Women on the Move

Report - Part I: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018

Part I - FROM THE JCFA NEWS No. 1

Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days, Ouagadougou 02 to 07 March 2018

Editor in Chief, Laurentine Bayala

Contributors : Rachelle Bengnime Some,

Photographer : Saïba Baguian

Journées cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’image (JCFA) 2018 - African Women Image Makers Cinema Days - Ouagadougou

Part I

Part II

Part III

Translation from French by Beti Ellerson

Panel: "The women professional in the digital age"

On the occasion of the 5th edition of the Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image (JCFA), a panel was organized on Friday, 2 March 2018, on the theme of this edition, "The women professional in the digital age". The panelists were filmmakers Balufu Bakupa-Kanyinda and Mamounata Nikiéma. Balufu Bakupa-Kanyinda is a scriptwriter, director, producer, film teacher, writer and poet, has directed several films, including Le damier-papa national oye!, Article 15a bis, Afro@digital and Juju factory, all of which have won prestigious prizes at major festivals, moreover, he is the initiator of the Thomas Sankara prize at FESPACO. As for Mamounata Nikiema, she is director and producer, manager of Pilumpiku Production, author of several documentaries including Savoir raison garder and Lumière d'octobre. Before the panel presentations, the documentary Afro @ digital was screened to contextualise the discussions. Everyone agrees that digital technology has simplified the work of professionals, though to varying degrees. According to Balufu Bakupa-Kanyinda, whose generation debuted with the 35 mm, Africa has lagged behind because no country has yet developed a digital policy and film industries are absent on the continent. Though digital technology offers more possibilities for cinema, there is nonetheless some misunderstanding.  By focusing on training, this situation could be changed through generational exchange, and the mastery of this tool by moving image professionals of the "digital generation". In this present group is Mamounata Nikiéma, who has been able to make her way into cinema thanks to the digital. For her, digital technology is a tool that has made it possible to democratise cinematographic practice, to organise the profession, to reduce certain costs and delays in post-production and to guarantee freedom of creation. Digital technology is especially a boon for women who can more easily coincide their role as filmmaker, mother and wife. It is this feeling that enlivens Naky Sy Savané actress and promoter of the Ivorian festival, for whom this theme comes at the right moment, as digital technology is in the process of imposing itself.

The panel was moderated by Claire Diao, film critic, co-founder of the pan-African cinema AWOTELE magazine and director of Sudu Connexion.

By Bengnimè Rachelle Some

Acting, film shooting and digital editing: professionals of the moving image take shape

The 5th African Women Image Makers Cinema Days (JCFA) held from March 2 to 7 in the capital of Burkina Faso. Like every edition, this festival gives pride of place to the training of moving image professionals. This year, the focus is on acting, film shooting and digital editing through two workshops. From 1-5 March 2018, at l’Institut supérieur de l’image et du son (ISIS-SE), about thirty trainees will familiarise themselves with or revisit the basic techniques in each of these sectors. The first training workshop on acting is delivered by Fabienne Bichet, professor of public speaking, and actir Ildevert Méda.

Shooting and Digital editing is conducted by Oumarou Kaboré of Media Africa, Jean Yves Nana of FESPACO and Paul JCFA Djibila of ISIS. For the content of the second workshop, Mr. Kaboré, who is one of the trainers, indicated that participants will attend theoretical and practical sessions. "We started with the theoretical aspects on the first day. We are going in the field for the next two days followed by editing sessions. And the content that has been produced will be presented at the closing ceremony, "he explained. Also, even if the digital has  facilitated the work of professionals, everything still needs a solid base, he added. More and more, we see women audiovisual professionals. Training is required to enable everyone to excel in her field.

By Bengnimè Rachelle Some

A tribute to Aminata Ouedraogo at the JCFA 2018

Activist at the very beginning for the promotion of the woman in the audio-visual professions, Aminata Ouedraogo receives a tribute by her peers and the JCFA. On the eve of the launch of the festival, the women met with her in order to show their gratitude for all her actions. On this occasion, she received a present from the women filmmakers. The General Delegate of FESPACO, Ardiouma SOMA was part of the delegation to honour Aminata Ouédraogo. Even in retirement, she continues to share her experience with the younger generation in the Burkina Faso National Union of Women of the Image (UNAFIB). In addition to the films she made, Aminata helped in the organisational aspects of FESPACO and directed the film and television market.

The 5th edition of the Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image (JCFA): the theme “The African woman professional meeting the challenges of the digital age”. According to the responses of some professionals, this is a timely theme. Digital technology is a tool that should be of great assistance to women. Presently, women are in all sectors of cinema and we know that in everyday life, women work more than everyone else. It allows women to better reconcile their family life and their profession. For example, at the same time remaining within the household environment, she is able to run her business, organise her festival, send emails, do long-distance interviews and make video conferences. Digital technology can therefore be a contribution to the work we do if we know how to use it. There are many pitfalls with these technologies, which means we have to use them intelligently.

Melanie de Vales Rafael: "The nurse who wants to save the war-wounded in Le train du sel et du sucre "

Melanie de Vales Rafael, an actress for 8 years, made her break through on the screen in the role of Nuta in "The Republic of Children" accompanied by American actor Danny Glover. Since then, she continues filming in her country Mozambique in"Under the full moon", then in the film "The Train of Salt and Sugar" the opening film at JCFA 2018. "I am a nurse from a wealthy family living in the South. But when the war breaks out in the north of the country, I leave it with the hope of healing the war wounded, "says Melanie. In Ouagadougou, she is the ambassador for this film, directed by Licinio Azevedo who was nominated at the 2018 Oscars "The film was selected for this year's Oscars, but we did not have enough money to do the campaign. Still we are proud that the film was selected, even if in the end we were not among the finalists "she adds. Mozambican cinema is in its infancy, according to the actress, since a film is only produced every 4 years. "We have a great deal of growing pains with many challenges such as looking for funding." Optimism is allowed for this young actress who is also fashion model.

Apolline Traore wins awards beyond our borders

Frontières won Best Film in Los Angeles in the United States during the Pan African Film and Art Festival from 8-19 February. Apolline Traoré dedicated her award to Idrissa Ouédraogo who had just passed away. This is a reminder that through art, the festival creates a greater understanding among afrodescendants.

Khouribga Festival 2018 the Egyptian Kamla Abu Zekri wins the Ousmane Sembène Award

For her film Un jour pour les femmes [A day for women] Kamla Abu Zekri was awarded the Ousmane Sembène prize at the 20th edition of the Khouribga African Film Festival.

Her feature film uses as pretext the news of the opening of a pool in a popular neighbourhood and the fact that it is open only to women on Sunday, to show, with subtlety and mastery, a space of externalizing feelings and unveiling personalities.

By Laurentine Bayala

Journées cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’image (JCFA) 2018 - African Women Image Makers Cinema Days - Ouagadougou

Journées cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’image (JCFA), 2018

African Women Image Makers Cinema Days - Ouagadougou

Le Festival panafricain du cinéma et de la télévision de Ouagadougou (FESPACO) organise du 02 au 07 mars 2018, à Ouagadougou, la 5e édition des Journées cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l’image (JCFA), sous le thème « La professionnelle africaine face aux défis du numérique ».

Ce rendez-vous qui magnifie la cinéaste africaine et la femme en général, sera marqué par des projections de films, un panel sur le thème et des ateliers de formation sur le jeu d’acteur, la prise de vue et le montage numérique.

[English]

FESPACO presents the 5th edition of the Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine de l'image (JCFA) from 02 to 07 March 2018, in Ouagadougou, under the theme "The African woman professional meeting the challenges of the digital age.

This event, which celebrates African filmmakers and women in general, will be marked by film screenings, a panel on the theme and training workshops on acting, shooting and digital editing.

PROGRAMME

Jeudi 01 mars 2018

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur le jeu d’acteur | Actor’s Workshop

Intervenant | Practitioner : Fabienne Bichet Ildevert Meda

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur les prises de vue et le montage numérique | Shooting and digital editing workshop 

Intervenants | Practitioners: Media Afrique : Oumarou Kaboré, FESPACO : Jean Yves Nana, ISIS / SE : Paul Djibila

Activité | Activity: Conférence de presse | Press conference

Intervenants | Participants: Comité d’organisation | Organisation committee

Activité | Activity: Visite à une personnalité féminine | Visit of a notable woman

Intervenants | Participants: UNAFIB

Vendredi 02 mars 2018

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur le jeu d’acteur | Actor’s Workshop

Intervenant | Practitioner : Fabienne Bichet Ildevert Meda

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur les prises de vue et le montage numérique | Shooting and digital editing workshop 

Intervenants | Practitioners: Media Afrique : Oumarou Kaboré, FESPACO : Jean Yves Nana, ISIS / SE : Paul Djibila

Activité | Activity: Panel sur le thème de l’édition: La professionnelle africaine de l’image face aux défis du numérique | Panel on theme of the 5th edition : The African woman professional meeting the challenges of the digital age

Intervenants: Panelistes | Panelists : Priscilla Anany / Bakupa Kanyinda Balufu / Mamounata Nikiema – Modératrice | Moderator : Claire Diao

Activités | Activities:

Cérémonie d’ouverture | Opening ceremony - Remise de Sarraounia d’honneur | Awarding of the distinguished Sarraounia

Film d’ouverture | Opening film ; Grand prix JCC : Le train de sucre et de sel - Licinio Azevedo (Mozambique)

En présence de | In the presence of  Mélanie de Vales Raphael (actrice-comédienne | actress)

Discours officiels | Official speeches

Samedi 03 mars 2018

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur le jeu d’acteur | Actor’s Workshop

Intervenant | Practitioner : Fabienne Bichet Ildevert Meda

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur les prises de vue et le montage numérique | Shooting and digital editing workshop 

Intervenants | Practitioners: Media Afrique : Oumarou Kaboré, FESPACO : Jean Yves Nana, ISIS / SE : Paul Djibila

Projections de films | Film screenings

Dimanche 04 mars 2018

Projections de films | Film screenings

Lundi 05 mars 2018

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur le jeu d’acteur | Actor’s Workshop

Intervenant | Practitioner : Fabienne Bichet Ildevert Meda

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur les prises de vue et le montage numérique | Shooting and digital editing workshop 

Intervenants | Practitioners: Media Afrique : Oumarou Kaboré, FESPACO : Jean Yves Nana, ISIS / SE : Paul Djibila

Activité | Activity: Carte blanche à Sudu Connexion

Sudu Connexion, diffuser les films d’Afrique et de la diaspora

Intervenants | Presenter: Claire Diao – Modératrice | Moderator : Mouna N’Diaye

Activité | Activity: Carte blanche à/to AfricaDoc

Intervenants | Presenter : Delphine Yerbanga - Modératrice : Mouna N’Diaye

Activité | Activity: Conférence : Développement du Business culturel : quelles opportunités en Afrique | what opportunities in Africa ?

Intervenants | Presenter: Ouattara – Modératrice | Moderator : Valérie Kaboré

Projections de films | Film screenings

Mardi 06 mars 2018

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur le jeu d’acteur | Actor’s Workshop

Intervenant | Practitioner : Fabienne Bichet Ildevert Meda

Activité | Activity: Atelier de formation sur les prises de vue et le montage numérique | Shooting and digital editing workshop 

Intervenants | Practitioners: Media Afrique : Oumarou Kaboré, FESPACO : Jean Yves Nana, ISIS / SE : Paul Djibila

Projections de films | Film Screenings

Mercredi 07 mars 2018

Activités | Activities:

Cérémonie de clôture | Closing ceremony

Remise d’attestation de participation | Presentation of the certificate of participation

Remise de Sarraounia d’honneur | Awarding of the distinguished Sarraounia

Film de clôture | Closing film : 

Grand prix Sembene Ousmane, Kouribga : Un jour pour les femmes 

Kamla Abu Zeki (Egypte) 

PROJECTIONS DE FILMS | FILM SCREENINGS

Le train de sucre et de sel 

Licinio Azevedo (Mozambique)

En présence de Mélanie de Vales Raphael (actrice-comédienne)

Frontières 

Apolline Traoré (Burkina Faso)

En présence de la réalisatrice | in the presence of the filmmaker et de\and of Naki Sy Savane (actrice-comédienne | actress)

Enfants de la montagne | Children of the Mountain

Priscilla Anany (Ghana)

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Fadima

Sita Traoré (Burkina Faso)

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Retour aux sources

Yeelen Eyogo-Edzang (Gabon)

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Qui est-tu Octobre ? 

Julie Jaroszewski (Belgique)

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Congo, un médecin pour sauver les femmes 

Angèle Diabang (Senegal)

En présence de la réalisatrice et du Docteur Dénis Mukwenge | In the presence of the filmmaker and Dr. Denis Mukwenge

Une place dans l’avion

Khadiatou Sow (Sénégal)

En présence de | In the presence of Coumba Samb Sarr

Les deux visages d’une femme bamileké

Rosine Mfetgo Mbakam (Cameroun)

Né en prison

Henriette Hangnanmey (Bénin)

En présence des réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Conflit conjugal

Khady Traoré (Burkina Faso)

En présence des réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Les cheveux démêlés cachent une guerre de sept ans 

Fatima Sissani (Algérie)

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

Maman Colonelle

Dieudo Hamadi (R.D. Congo)

En présence de | In the presence of Maman Colonelle 

Un jour pour les femmes 

Kamla Abu Zeki (Egypte) 

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker

CARTE BLANCHE 1: SUDU CONNEXION

(En présence de | In the presence of Claire Diao)

Vers la tendresse

Alice Diop (France)

La mort de Danton

Alice Diop (France)

CARTE BLANCHE 2 : SUDU CONNEXION

Tata Milouda

Nadja Harek (France)

Mayotte, Hip – Hop (R)evolutions 

Nadja Harek (France)

En présence de la réalisatrice | In the presence of the filmmaker 

Mort, richesse et pollution

Monica Blanc Gomez

Sié Kambou (Burkina Faso)

En présence des réalisateur.trice.s | In the presence of the filmmakers

CARTE BLANCHE 1: AFRICADOC

(En présence des réalisatrice.teur.s | In the presence of the filmmakers)

Eau secours 

Wabinlé Nabie (Burkina Faso)

L’arrière cour 

Ines Oreli Sorgho (Burkina Faso)

Les silences de Lydie 

Aissata Ouarma (Burkina Faso)

CARTE BLANCHE 2 : AFRICADOC

(En présence des réalisatrices | In the presence of the filmmakers)

Oser la scène 

Mamounata Nikiema (Burkina Faso)

Biba la taxiwoman 

Delphine Yerbanga (Burkina Faso)

Au fantôme du père 

Laurentine Bayala (Burkina Faso)

Report by | Compte rendu par Laurentine Bayala : JCFA 2016 - Film Festival of African Women | Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - Burkina Faso

Laurentine Bayala-left|gauche

4th edition, Film Festival of African Women : The actress in the creation of African cinema | 4ème édition des Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine : la comédienne au cœur des débats

Report by | Compte rendu par
LAURENTINE BAYALA

Images: FESPACO

[English] Français ci-après

On Thursday 3 March African women cineastes gathered in Ouagadougou for the opening of the 4th edition of the Film Festival of African Women - Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine (JCFA). During workshops, film screenings and panels on the theme "the actress in the creation of African cinema", women in the diverse areas of the field attempted to find solutions to their concerns. The invited professionals included filmmakers, producers and actresses from Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Guinea-Conakry, Niger, Senegal and Tunisia.

  

Leyla Bouzid

The JCFA opened its doors with the film  As I open my eyes by the young Tunisian director Leyla Bouzid. The fifteen scheduled films included six feature films, eight short films and a documentary. Tahirou Barry, the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Burkina who made the opening clap, took the opportunity to reaffirm the government's support to women filmmakers. Moreover, he met with them a few hours before the opening ceremony to discuss the thorny issue of funding for films made by women.

Meanwhile as they await this funding, the actresses asked poignant questions about their place in African cinema. They especially exposed the difficulties they have to face specifically regarding the non-payment of actors’ fees and the lack of a structure for training. Hence, it was for this reason that FESPACO decided to strengthen the skills of actresses through the creation of a structure for actor training.

The JCFA closed with the 7 March awards ceremony during which a bronze "Sarraounia" was presented to all the filmmakers whose works were screened.

[Français]

Les cinéastes africaines sont réunies depuis le jeudi 03 mars à Ouagadougou à l’occasion de la 4ème édition des Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine (JCFA). Entre ateliers de formation, projections de films et panels portant sur « La comédienne dans la création du film africain », les femmes professionnelles tentent surtout de trouver des solutions à leurs préoccupations. Le FESPACO qui organise ce biennal, a invité des réalisatrices, des productrices et actrices du Bénin, du Cameroun, du Congo, du Gabon, de Guinée Conakry, du Niger, du Sénégal, et de Tunisie.

  

C’est avec le film « A peine j’ouvre les yeux » de la jeune réalisatrice tunisienne Leyla Bouzid que les
Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africaine ont ouvert leur porte. Quinze films ont été programmés dont six longs métrages, huit courts métrages et un documentaire. Le Ministre de la culture et du Tourisme du Burkina Tahirou Barry qui a donné le clap d’ouverture, a saisi l’occasion pour réaffirmer le soutien du gouvernement aux femmes cinéastes. En effet, il les a rencontrées quelques heures avant la cérémonie d’ouverture, pour évoquer l’épineuse question du financement des films faits par les femmes. 

En attendant les fonds, les comédiennes s’interrogent à cette 4ème édition, sur leur place dans le cinéma africain. Elles ont surtout mis à nu les difficultés auxquelles elles étaient confrontées à savoir le non-paiement des cachets et le manque de structures de formation. C’est pourquoi, le FESPACO a opté de renforcer les compétences des comédiennes à travers une formation sur le jeu d’acteur.

Les JCFA a pris fin, le 07 mars, avec la remise de trophées en bronze « Sarraounia » à toutes les réalisatrices dont les films ont été projetés.

Translation from French by Beti Ellerson

Liens | Links :

Rencontre avec Laurentine Bayala

A Conversation with Laurentine Bayala

Report - Part I: Journées Cinématographiques de la Femme Africain de l'Image | African Women Image Makers Cinema Days 2018

Mis Me Binga 2018 – Laurentine Bayala : Au fantôme du père | To the Ghost of the Father (Burkina Faso)

Report by | Compte rendu par Laurentine Bayala : JCFA 2016 - Film Festival of African Women | Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine - Burkina Faso

Laurentine Bayala : Elections couplées de 2012, les femmes burkinabé en marche | Coupled Elections of 2012, Burkinabe Women on the Move

Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine (JCFA) 2016 | The Film Festival of African Women - Burkina Faso

Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine (JCFA) 2016 | The Film Festival of African Women - Burkina Faso - La comédienne dans la création du film africain | The Actress in the creation of African cinema

[English] Français ci-après

The 4th edition of the Film Festival of African Women (JCFA) held from 3 to 7 March, leads to the 8 March International Women's Day celebrations. A variety of screenings, workshops, and master classes will be held under the theme “The actress in the creation of African cinema”. The professionals in the field will discuss the role and place of women in the development of cinema and the audio-visual on the continent.

The event, which takes place every two years alternating with FESPACO--thus providing it a certain visibility, has as objective to promote African women in cinema, to examine the challenges that they face in this profession, and to network and establish lasting relationships with other festivals of its kind around the world. 

The JCFA takes place in the form of a gala though no prizes are awarded. The selected films, however, receive participation trophies called "the Sarraounia".

Programme of activities for JCFA 2016

04 March 

Official opening ceremony

Master class – exchange of experiences with actress or filmmakers 

Three public screenings at 16h, 18h and 20h.

05 March

Workshop devoted to young actresses. Thirty participants will work with Ildevert Medah, a well-known professional of the stage and of audio-visual. During this workshop he will discuss techniques of acting. 

Three public screenings at 16h, 18h and 20h.

07 March

The closing ceremony of JCFA

[Français]

La 4ème édition des Journées cinématographiques de la femme africaine (JCFA) se tient du 3 au 7 mars autour des festivités de la journée internationale de la femme le 08 mars. Projections, ateliers, master class constituent les points saillants de cette édition placée sous le thème « la comédienne dans la création du film africain ». Les professionnels vont échanger sur le rôle et la place de la femme africaine dans le développement du cinéma et de l’audio-visuel sur le continent.

L'événement qui a lieu tous les 2 ans, en alternance avec le Fespaco, se fixe pour objectif de promouvoir la femme africaine de l'image, d'évoquer les difficultés que ces professionnelles rencontrent et d'établir des relations privilégiées avec les autres festivals du genre dans le monde.

C'est donc un cadre de rencontre que leur offre le FESPACO qui leur permettra aussi d'avoir une certaine visibilité. La manifestation est ouverte également à des cinématographies non-africaines.

Les JCFA se déroulent sous forme de gala sans une remise de prix. Les réalisations invitées recevront seulement des trophées de participation dénommées "Sarraounia".

Le programme des activités des JCFA 2016

04 mars 

L’ouverture officielle

Master class – partages des expériences avec des comédiennes ou réalisatrices

Trois projections au grand public à partir de 16 heures, 18h et 20h.

05 mars

Atelier dédié au jeunes comediennes. Une trentaine de participantes seront encadrées par Ildevert Medah, un homme de cinéma très connu du milieu de la scène et de l’audio-visuel. Durant cet atelier, il donnera aux participantes quelques notions sur le jeu d’acteur.

Trois projections au grand public à partir de 16 heures, 18h et 20h.

07 mars

La clôture des JCFA