Rwanda’s film industry has entered uncharted territory with the formation of its first-ever Oscars Selection Committee, a milestone that cultural leaders, filmmakers, and policymakers describe as transformative for the country’s creative economy and global cultural presence. Announced on August 11 by the Ministry of Youth and Arts, the committee will evaluate and submit one Rwandan film for consideration in the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. ALSO READ: Rwanda names first-ever Oscars selection committee ahead ofc98th Academy Awards For a country that has never before had an official pathway to the Oscars, this move signifies more than just eligibility. It marks a bold statement of ambition, creative self-confidence, and a readiness to compete on the world stage. A door to the world In the wake of the announcement, State Minister for Youth and Arts Sandrine Umutoni told The New Times that the creation of the committee “is a pivotal opportunity for Rwanda’s film industry and, by extension, our entire creative economy.” She noted that it aligns with national strategies to position Rwanda’s cultural output internationally. “This aligns with our strategy to elevate our cinematic voice globally, while continuing to strive for stronger partnerships for more impactful productions,” she said. For Kennedy Mazimpaka, a veteran actor and cultural figure, the announcement marks a historic breakthrough. In an interview with The New Times, he described it as a massive door swinging open, not just for directors and actors, but for everyone involved in the creative value chain. “This is a major opportunity for the entire creative industry. It’s incredibly good news for us, and it means a lot. Now, there’s a clear target. Filmmakers can craft stories with the Oscars in mind, knowing that a win could serve as a gateway to the world’s top producers,” Mazimpaka said. He emphasised that the impact goes beyond cinema and reaches into Rwanda’s cultural identity: “The Rwandan culture, our language, our identity – all of it will now be showcased on a larger stage. In 10 or 20 years, this will change how the world sees Rwanda.” Inside the committee’s mission The Rwanda Oscars Selection Committee (ROSC) is composed of 15 professionals, including filmmakers, producers, actors, writers, and other key industry stakeholders. Their mandate is to review all submitted films, deliberate independently, and vote by secret ballot to select Rwanda’s official submission. ALSO READ: Who is who on Rwanda’s first-ever Oscars selection committee Tresor Senga, one of the committee members, emphasised that the role goes beyond simply choosing a strong film. “One of our main priorities is to ensure that the selected filmmaker is not only artistically accomplished but also strategically positioned. Support will include guidance on meeting international standards for Oscar campaigns,” he explained. Producer and creative strategist Annette Uwizeye views the milestone as both a validation and a source of inspiration: “It proves that our films can stand alongside the best in the world and brings new hope to the industry. It’s also an opportunity to shape global perceptions of Rwanda by sharing authentic Rwandan stories on one of cinema’s most influential stages.” Marie-France Niragire, Creative Media Strategist, CEO of Genesis TV Rwanda, and Chairperson of the Rwanda Art Council, also expressed pride in serving on the inaugural committee: “It is a true honour to be part of this historic moment for our country. This milestone marks a significant step forward, signaling that Rwanda’s film industry is confidently entering the global stage. She added, “This process is about more than just selecting a film, it’s about sharing Rwanda’s stories with the world, highlighting our creative talent, and inspiring future generations of filmmakers. I believe this initiative will open doors for increased collaboration, attract investment, and earn international recognition for Rwandan cinema.” Hope Azeda, founder of the Ubumuntu Arts Festival and an influential voice in East African theatre, spoke about the privilege and challenge of the task: “The journey may not be easy, but I believe there is a hidden treasure waiting to be unearthed. This calls for filmmakers to be consistent, authentic, and intentional in their craft. I am here to serve and support.” A long-term cultural strategy For filmmaker Eugene Safari, the creation of the Oscars Selection Committee is not an isolated move, but part of a longer journey by the government to elevate cinema as a core component of Rwanda’s cultural industries. He points to ongoing initiatives, structural reforms, and the Ministry’s visible leadership as evidence of sustained commitment. “The government has for a long time shown willingness to support the cinema industry, and the Ministry taking the lead here shows the intention to take it to another level in a structured way,” Safari said. “It’s one of many strategies to grow cultural industries. You can already see it in the initiatives for technical skills, in the Rwanda Film Office, and other projects that support creative work.” He also highlights a distinctive strength within Rwanda’s filmmaking community, which is unity. “The unique thing about Rwandan productions is that they are built on collaboration. People often come together to work, not just because of the budget, but because they want to support each other’s projects. If this spirit continues, and now with government support, cinema can rise along with other sectors like theatre, music, animation, and performance arts.” Safari believes that this combination of strong policy support and grassroots solidarity will help Rwanda’s creative industries grow together, rather than in isolation. Why the Oscars matter The Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars, are the most prestigious recognition in the global film industry. First held in 1929, the awards honour artistic and technical excellence in cinema. The International Feature Film category, formerly known as Best Foreign Language Film, is one of its most competitive and closely watched segments. For a film to qualify in this category, it must have more than 50 percent of its dialogue in a language other than English (with English subtitles), be produced outside the United States, and have a theatrical release of at least seven consecutive days in a commercial cinema between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025. Additionally, the film must not have been publicly shown in any non-theatrical format – such as television, streaming, or DVD, prior to its theatrical release. Once a country selects its entry, the film is submitted to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), where it competes for a spot on the shortlist and, potentially, a nomination. While the process is rigorous, an Oscar nomination, and especially a win – can transform a filmmaker’s career, boost tourism, attract investment, and also open doors to international co-production opportunities. More than awards but a cultural statement In Rwanda’s case, the Oscars Selection Committee is as much about cultural diplomacy as it is about competition. As Mazimpaka and others pointed out, a film that makes it to the Oscars becomes an ambassador for the nation, carrying its language, traditions, landscapes, and worldview into global consciousness. This aligns with Rwanda’s broader push to use creative industries as a lever for economic growth, social cohesion, and soft power. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and Ministry of Youth and Arts have been increasingly active in supporting cultural festivals, film productions, and creative entrepreneurship. ALSO READ: Why investing in creative industry value chains matters The long road ahead Even with this new pathway, Rwanda’s film industry still faces challenges, from limited funding and production infrastructure to distribution hurdles and a relatively small domestic market. But industry insiders say that having a tangible goal like the Oscars can galvanize the sector to raise standards and think bigger. As Mazimpaka says, it is up to industry players to seize the opportunity and leverage international exposure. “Now it is up to us, the filmmakers, to go through that open door. There are hands open wide on the other side, ready to embrace Rwanda’s creative industry. What lies beyond is huge,” he said. With submissions closing at the end of August, anticipation is mounting over which film will carry Rwanda’s hopes to the 98th Academy Awards. Regardless of the outcome, many in the industry believe the symbolic victory has already been won. Rwanda is now officially in the Oscar conversation. And as Uwizeye notes, the real win will be in the stories Rwanda chooses to tell: “The Oscars stage is about more than prestige. It’s a chance to say: this is who we are, and this is how we see the world.”
