The EU aims to significantly strengthen links between the African and European film and audiovisual industries. The programme „Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture: Audiovisual Sector“, presented at the Hamburg Film Festival, is designed to break new ground in co-production, financing and distribution – and thereby also facilitate access to African markets for European producers, distributors and investors.

Funding is available for the programme, which runs until 2029, 16.5 million euros is available. It is being implemented by GIZ and Expertise France. The programme includes, amongst other things, the establishment of business networks, support in finding financing partners, and advice on regulatory frameworks. Distribution partnerships and the development of new audiences are also part of the approach.

The economic context is a growing audiovisual market which has, to date, suffered from significant structural gaps. According to the project partners, the aim is, in particular, to strengthen links between African and European companies across the entire value chain – from development and co-production through to financing, distribution and audiences.

The programme thus opens up potential new opportunities for cooperation and exploitation for European market participants. At the same time, it aims to support the African industry in gaining access to expertise, networks and international funding. Operational implementation in the audiovisual sector is set to begin in autumn 2026.