The 2024 EU Film Festival in Uganda opened at the Uganda National Cultural Centre, National Theater, after a three year hiatus. Team Europe – comprising the EU Delegation to Uganda and our Member States' embassies – are delighted to present the return of European cinema to the heart of Uganda.

On behalf of #TeamEurope, our Ambassador Jan Sadek had the honour to host a reception marking the opening of the festival. The State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo graced the event as Chief Guest, presenting the Government of Uganda support to film.

Speaking at the opening, Ambassador Sadek expressed gratitude to our 10 participating Member States: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden, noting the contribution of each country with a film.

Ambassador Sadek noted that the EU Film Festival takes place within the context of a broader and deeper partnership between the EU and Uganda and said Team Europe is proud to be one of Uganda's leading development partner, supporting sustainable and inclusive growth across multiple sectors. Ambassador Sadek noted that the strength of the EU and Uganda partnership lies in its comprehensive nature – from trade and investment to political dialogue and people-to-people exchanges.

He said the 2024  EU Film Festival represents just one facet of this multifaceted cooperation demonstrating how cultural exchange can build bridges and foster mutual understanding between our peoples, noting: it exemplifies our commitment to a partnership based on shared values, mutual respect, and common aspirations for a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive future.

Speaking on behalf of Uganda's vibrant creative sector, Manuela P. Mulondo noted that film is more than just entertainment; it is a universal language that allows us to share our cultures, our histories and our dreams, and said the 2024 EU Film Festival is an invaluable opportunity to showcase and to learn, not only what is in Europe but what is also in Uganda and how we can come together as #EUandUganda.

The Film Festival takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through Europe – from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, from historical epochs to contemporary narratives. Each film offers a unique window into European life, values, and artistic expression.