About Encounters South African International Documentary Festival

As Africa’s leading platform for documentary cinema, the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival is proud to present the 12th edition of the European Film Festival South Africa — a showcase of bold, thought-provoking films that foster solidarity, equality, and sustainability.

Now in its 27th year, Encounters continues to shape the continent’s documentary landscape, drawing thousands to its annual 10-day festival in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Through powerful local and international films, it creates space for critical dialogue on urgent social, political, and cultural issues.

Led by Festival Director Mandisa Zitha, the Encounters team has built lasting partnerships with global festivals such as Cannes Docs, IDFA, Berlinale, and Vision du Réel — amplifying African voices on the world stage. Its commitment to access and industry development is reflected in its wide-reaching Inreach/Outreach Programme, filmmaker Q&As, and skills-building initiatives.

Driven by a Pan-African vision and a commitment to transformation through film, Encounters remains a vital hub for conversation, collaboration, and cinematic excellence — and while rooted on the African continent, we bring global and universal stories from around the world to spark meaningful dialogue.

A Message from the Ambassador of the European Union to South Africa

I am delighted that the European Film Festival returns to South Africa for a 12th time, to once again strengthen the ties between South African and European audiences. Films bring people together – by entertaining, inspiring, and surprising. They create shared moments, and spotlight our common humanity. This year’s programme is guided by the theme of solidarity, equality, and sustainability, which is at the heart of strategic partnership between the EU and South Africa. It is also the theme of the South African G20 Presidency. I thank Cineuropa, participating countries’ diplomatic missions and cultural institutes in South Africa, and Encounters for this year’s event.