Gamstars Movie Production has announced the launch of the first-ever Banjul Film Festival, set to take place in December 2025.

The event is being hailed as a landmark moment for the country’s growing creative sector.

The festival, the first of its kind in The Gambia, aims to spotlight local filmmaking talent and encourage greater investment in the country’s cultural industries.

Pa Modou Cham, director of Gamstars, described the initiative as a significant step towards developing a national film culture.

“This festival is not just about screening films, it’s about creating a space for Gambian stories to be told, seen, and celebrated,” he said.

“It’s also a call to action for government, private sector, and international partners to support the Gambia’s emerging film industry.”

Organisers say the event will include film screenings, competitions, panel discussions and workshops, with awards presented for outstanding productions. A call for submissions is expected in the coming months.

Cham said he hopes the festival will become an annual fixture and serve as a platform to inspire young creatives and draw attention to the country’s underfunded creative economy.

“With the right support, we can build an industry that contributes to national development, job creation and cultural preservation,” he added.

Preparations for the event are under way, with organisers currently engaging stakeholders, sponsors, and production houses.

By Adama Makasuba