Record numbers for EU Film Festival in Eswatini

Held on 13 - 16 May 2026 at the Mbabane Theatre Club, this 5^th edition of the EU Film Festival attracted more than 600 film enthusiasts throughout the four-day period, surpassing previous editions in the number of attendees.

After a top-notch kick off on 13 May when four local movies, including a Swati/Belgian collaboration, raised the curtain along with a French film, the last day on 16 May was equally spellbinding when attendees were treated to a menu of four exciting movies which left everyone glued to the screen throughout. Bringing down the curtain was a Swedish blockbuster movie, 'The Dance Club', which, like the previous films, thrilled the audience.

EU in Eswatini

At the end of each film, audience reflections confirmed that all present enjoyed each movie. There was even a round of applause at the end of the last film with cinema lovers appreciating a very successful film festival. Many even looked forward to the next edition in 2027.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, thanked Alliance Francaise along with the 10 EU Member States and other stakeholders involved for successfully organising this edition of the film festival.

The Ambassador reiterated that the aim of the festival was to share European cultures, in all their richness and diversity, with Emaswati.

He added that the inclusion of local movies ensures that there is an ongoing cultural exchange between Europe and Eswatini.

EU in Eswatini

Taking place along with the film festival was a mobile Photo Exhibition showcasing the impact of EU partnership with the Kingdom of Eswatini, through cooperation projects implemented throughout the country, over the last 50 years.

The Photo Exhibition is part of the ongoing campaign marking the 50^th anniversary of EU-Eswatini partnership, which was launched at the beginning of May.

The Photo Exhibition added another flavour to the Film Festival for the movie-goers.