The cinematic heart of East Africa is set to beat louder this November as the Ethiopian International Film Festival (EIFF) returns to Addis Ababa to celebrate its landmark 20th anniversary. Established in 2005, the festival has long served as a vital cultural torchbearer, and its upcoming edition promises to be its most significant yet, rolling out the red carpet for a diverse array of Ethiopian, African, and international cinema that explores the depth of global storytelling. Get ready for a week where Ethiopia’s capital transforms into a vibrant theatre of ideas, showcasing the powerful narratives that are defining the future of African filmmaking.

​Organized annually by the Linkage Arts Resource Center (LARC), the EIFF is the premier platform dedicated to promoting Ethiopian and African film. While specific 2025 dates in November are still anticipated from the organizers, the tradition holds firm for a grand celebration of cinema.

​The 2025 event will not just be a film screening, but a historical milestone—the festival's 20th anniversary. This anniversary is expected to be marked by special retrospectives, honoring the pioneers of Ethiopian cinema while spotlighting a new generation of filmmakers who are garnering international attention.

​The festival typically features:

• ​Diverse Screenings: A curated selection of feature films, short films, documentaries, and animations from around the world, though with a primary focus on Amharic and multilingual African cinema.

• ​Industry Recognition: The festival culminates in an awards ceremony, recognizing excellence in categories such as Best Feature Film, Best Screenplay, and Best Director, following the recent trend of promoting high-quality, thought-provoking productions.

• ​Networking and Workshops: EIFF has historically been a crucial meeting point for industry professionals, facilitating B2B opportunities and knowledge-sharing workshops aimed at developing local filmmaking talent and fostering international collaboration.

​The festival takes place at a time when Ethiopian cinema is actively seeking greater global presence. With various film festivals across the continent and a growing demand for authentic African stories, the EIFF serves as a vital gatekeeper, ensuring high standards and exposing local talent to global partners.

​Film enthusiasts, industry delegates, and the public are eagerly awaiting the full program announcement for the November event. The festival’s longevity is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in Ethiopia, confirming its place as a major cultural event on the African calendar.