WINDHOEK: The Delegation of the European Union ( EU ) in Namibia , in partnership with its member states and the local film industry , on Tuesday launched the 2024 EU Film Festival at the Franco Namibia Cultural Centre . This year ' s festival , under the theme ' Year of Skills ,' showcases European cinema while promoting skills development in the local community . The festival will take place over two months , with screenings scheduled for every Wednesday night from 18 September to 13 November 2024 at the Ster Kinekor Cinema at Maerua Mall in Windhoek . Admission will be free for all attendees . The theme highlights the festival ' s focus on not only presenting European films , but also fostering local talent and skills through cultural exchange . The event is expected to provide an opportunity for Namibian audiences to experience a diverse range of European films and engage with the region ' s rich cinematic traditions . At the launch , Ian Dupont , Deputy Head of Mission for the EU to Namibia , said the fe stival not only raises awareness and interest in both European and Namibian cinema , but also strengthens ties between the EU , Namibian audiences , and local partners . He expressed pride in hosting the annual EU Film Festival in Namibia once again , calling it a key milestone in TeamEurope ' s cultural cooperation with Namibia . Dupont described the festival as a celebration of filmmaking and a means to bridge cultural gaps , fostering understanding not only between the EU and Namibia , but also across different global cultures . ' The European Film Festival offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse cultures , life stories , and cinematic traditions . The EU and its partners hope the festival will inspire audiences , spark innovation , and provide a source of cultural enrichment ,' he said . The 2024 EU Film Festival will feature eight acclaimed European films and will close with a special screening of the Namibian film ' Lukas .' It will kick off with the screening of ' Semmelweis ', a Hungarian film that highlights the visionary work of a pioneering doctor in maternal health .Source: The Namibia News Agency