Cabo Verde Expands Cinematic Horizons, Ivory Coast Embraces Animation, Zimbabwe Pursues Ambitious Film Projects at Locarno Open Doors 2026
Open Doors, the co-production platform and talent development initiative of the Locarno Film Festival, is set to launch its 2026 edition, focusing on filmmakers from equity-seeking communities and regions where artistic expression faces challenges. This year marks the second edition dedicated to highlighting African cinema.
Open Doors Producers Program
The Open Doors Producers program aims to assist producers in establishing sustainable careers and fostering cross-border networks. Six participants have been selected to attend the program in Locarno, Switzerland. The participants include Tapiwa Chipfupa from Ambidextrous Pictures in Zimbabwe, who recently initiated the Audiovisual Entrepreneurs Laboratory (AVEL), an international training and mentorship program. Adja Mariam Mahre Soro from Côte d’Ivoire leads Studio Kä, an animation studio she founded in Abidjan. Natasha Craveiro from Cabo Verde is known for her work with Korikaxoru Films, which produced Omi Nobu, featured in the Open Doors Screenings at Locarno 2025. Other participants include veteran Mamounata Nikiema from Burkina Faso, Nigerian producer David Ikeata from Vox Cinematic Films, and Rua Osman from Sudan, whose Helomur Picture produced the festival favorite Goodbye Julia at Cannes 2023.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Yanis Gaye, a French-Senegalese creative producer and co-founder of Goree Cinema in Senegal and Strange Fruit Production House in France, serves as the head of studies at Open Doors. Gaye remarked on the diverse representation of territories at Open Doors 2026, noting that many regions face significant challenges in terms of infrastructure and local industry. He emphasized the resilience and innovative models emerging from these areas, stating that the profile of the African producer often aligns more closely with that of an entrepreneur or social entrepreneur.
The Open Doors program runs from August 5 to 10, offering hands-on training, mentoring, and networking opportunities, alongside public screenings and events during the Locarno Film Festival and its industry arm, Locarno Pro.
Participant Perspectives
Participants expressed enthusiasm about their involvement in the program. Craveiro highlighted her eagerness to meet collaborators and showcase Cape Verde’s cinematic potential beyond its football reputation. Chipfupa shared his excitement about the online program’s personalized approach, which has already provided him with valuable insights and connections.
Soro expressed gratitude for being selected, noting that her animation work is a new venture for the Open Doors program. She is bringing a young adult animated series to Locarno, which she believes will resonate with global audiences.
Project Highlights
Craveiro is presenting two hybrid feature projects focused on Cape Verde’s realities. One addresses environmental concerns amid rising tourism, while the other explores post-colonial themes, reflecting on the lasting impact of colonial traumas in the country.
Chipfupa is developing a supernatural thriller set in a village, centering on a young girl who challenges patriarchal traditions. He aims to find financing partners and contribute to Zimbabwe’s evolving film ecosystem through initiatives like a producers’ lab supported by Berlinale Talents.
Soro noted the recent advancements in Côte d’Ivoire’s animation sector, including a collaboration with the Ministry of Communication to establish an animation school for young talents. She highlighted the growing recognition of the need for a robust animation ecosystem in the country.
As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.
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Published on 2026-08-04 11:01:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk