THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
South Africa’s film industry is set for a major international spotlight after the country was officially named the “Country in Focus” for the 2027 edition of the European Film Market (EFM) at the Berlin International Film Festival, widely known as the Berlinale.
The announcement, made by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) and the Berlinale organisers, means South African cinema and audiovisual production will take centre stage during the EFM, one of the world’s leading film markets, which runs alongside the Berlinale in February 2027.
The “Country in Focus” initiative, launched in 2017, showcases selected national film industries with the aim of promoting international collaboration, co-production opportunities and global market access. Previous editions have highlighted countries and regions such as Mexico, Italy, Spain, Morocco and the Baltic States.
According to Berlinale festival director Tricia Tuttle, South Africa’s selection reflects both its long relationship with the festival and the growing international importance of its film industry. She praised the country’s “powerful storytelling” and “remarkable creative voices,” noting that South African cinema continues to shape global conversations.
South Africa has long maintained a visible presence at the Berlinale. In 2005, U-Carmen eKhayelitsha by Mark Dornford-May became the first South African film to win the festival’s prestigious Golden Bear award. Over the years, South African filmmakers and productions have regularly featured across Berlinale programmes and industry platforms.
The EFM focus is expected to create new opportunities for South African filmmakers, producers and production companies to connect with international buyers, financiers, distributors and streaming platforms. The programme will showcase the country’s creative talent, production infrastructure and diverse storytelling traditions across film, television, documentaries, animation and emerging media.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, described the recognition as “more than recognition” and called it an invitation for international collaboration, co-production and investment in the country’s creative economy.
The 2027 European Film Market will take place from 10 to 16 February as part of the 77th Berlinale.
Vivian Asamoah
