Congolese Director's Bold Vision for Cinema

Machérie Ekwa Bahango is dedicated to elevating Congolese cinema by showcasing the nation's authentic reality and moving beyond limiting labels. Her upcoming film, 'Madi Makambu,' which received a prize at the Venice Film Festival, delves into complex social issues faced by its characters, reflecting the difficult but real experiences within Congo.

Ekwa Bahango, a self-taught filmmaker, believes her unconventional path allows for the necessary freedom and vulnerability in her work. She highlights significant financial challenges within the local industry and a lack of awareness regarding cinema's power, leading to underinvestment. Abroad, particularly in the West, the challenge lies in gaining acceptance for Congolese cinema, which is diverse and not reducible to a single African model.

Inspired by her daily life and surroundings, Ekwa Bahango's cinema often focuses on resilient women, stemming from her earlier work with survivors of violence. She views love as a crucial element that enables belief and perseverance in society. Her films aim to capture the unpredictability of life in Congo, underscoring the importance of love in overcoming sorrow.