EU Film Festival brings European and Namibian stories to the big screen
The European Union Film Festival (EUFF) is back, promising a fresh showcase of stories from Europe and Namibia when it kicks off in Windhoek on 3 September.Launched by the European Union Delegation to Namibia, alongside EU Member States and local partners, the 2025 edition will run until 29 October at Ster Kinekor Cinema in Maerua Mall. The Festival has grown into a cultural meeting point where European and Namibian cinema share the stage, encouraging dialogue, inspiration and new perspectives.
This year’s line-up includes nine acclaimed European films, screened every Wednesday evening. The festival will close with two Namibian productions and a panel discussion, giving local filmmakers a prominent platform. For the first time, the EUFF will also host a children’s screening on 4 October, opening doors for young audiences to experience international cinema.
The opening film, Miss Viborg from Denmark, is a heartwarming comedy-drama about resilience, friendship and intergenerational bonds. Its selection also honours Denmark’s current Rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The 2025 Festival carries the theme “Opportunities for Youth”, underlining the EU’s belief in young people as change-makers. In line with this, the festival continues to support Kino Namibia, an initiative of the Namibia Film Commission aimed at nurturing young filmmakers.
Workshop
October will also see the return of the EU-funded Cell-Phone Video Workshop, this time hosted in Windhoek. The popular programme, which previously toured Oshakati, Keetmanshoop and Swakopmund, demonstrates how impactful films can be made with nothing more than a mobile phone.
Speaking at the launch, Ian Dupont, the EU’s Deputy Head of Mission to Namibia, said the festival was about much more than cinema. “It is about stories that connect us, bridge cultures, and remind us of our shared humanity. We are particularly proud to shine a spotlight on youth through this year’s programme, because we believe young people are not only tomorrow’s storytellers, but also today’s change-makers. Film is a powerful way to give them a voice and a platform,” he said.
The festival is supported by EU Resident Member States Finland, France, Germany, Portugal, Spain and Italy (through Club Italiano), as well as Non-Resident Member States Denmark and Austria. Locally, the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology, the Namibia Film Commission, the Namibian Filmmakers Association and Jam Events are key partners in staging the event.
Last year’s edition drew over 2 000 film enthusiasts. This year, organisers aim to welcome even more by hosting screenings in Ster Kinekor’s largest theatre. The public is invited to attend the premiere on 3 September and join in celebrating storytelling, creativity and cultural diversity.