Set against the enchanting voice of the legendary Kawkab El Sharq Umm Kulthum, the 9th edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) launched on the evening of Friday, May 2nd. This year’s edition pays tribute to the iconic singer, marking 50 years since her passing, and celebrates her enduring legacy not only as a voice but as a cinematic figure who addressed women’s issues through film.
TV presenter Jasmine Taha Zaki opened the ceremony, unveiling several surprises for this edition — including the launch of a “Films of the South” competition and events taking place across Aswan in public libraries, gardens, and open-air venues with music, circus performances, and public talks.
Jasmine noted that Umm Kulthum is honored not just for her music, but also for her pioneering work in cinema portraying women’s stories. This year, the festival features 72 films from 34 countries and hosts competitions for feature films, shorts, impact films, EU films, Aswan workshop films, and the new Southern Cinema segment.
Actress Dalia El Behairy delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing pride in attending the festival in the majestic city of Aswan — a place where women have held stature from Pharaonic times to the present. She emphasized the importance of cinema in empowering women and urged for a more just and equal world.
Festival Director Hassan Abu El-Ala described this year’s edition as a deeply special one, carrying the name of the Arab world’s greatest artist. He highlighted how the festival extends into the streets and public spaces of Aswan and thanked the Ministry of Culture, Aswan Governorate, the Ministry of Tourism, EgyptAir, the National Council for Women, the EU, UN Women, and others for their support.
Dr. Azza Kamel, Vice Chair of the Festival’s Board of Trustees and Head of the NUT Forum for Women’s Issues, called this edition “exceptional” for bearing Umm Kulthum’s name. “She was the voice, the power, and the unifier of the Arab world — a symbol of resilience, courage, and resistance,” said Kamel. She dedicated this edition to every creative woman rewriting the narrative about gender and justice.
Festival President Mohamed Abdel Khaleq described the 9th edition as a prelude to an even more expansive 10th edition, emphasizing the mission to make cinema accessible to all.
Ambassador Dr. Mervat Tallawy, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised the festival’s alignment with the national agenda to empower women and stressed cinema’s role in shifting awareness. She also honored the resilience of Gazan women and children through the symbolic presence of their stories.
Judge Amal Ammar of the National Council for Women highlighted art as more than entertainment — a powerful bridge between cultures. She praised Umm Kulthum as a lasting national icon and urged guests to enjoy the rich cinematic and musical program.
Angelina Eichhorst, Head of the EU Delegation to Egypt and the Arab World, expressed joy at attending the opening in Aswan. She spoke about the EU’s commitment to supporting women, cinema, and nature, and called Umm Kulthum an icon who represented Arab culture worldwide.
Governor Ismail Kamal welcomed the attendees, affirming the central role of women in Aswan’s society. Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhy highlighted Aswan’s heritage and Egyptian cinema’s enduring legacy, underlining Egypt’s dedication to empowering both women and youth.
The festival honored Syrian actress Kinda Alloush for her rich portrayals of women, to which she responded with heartfelt thanks, saying she considers Egypt her second home and is always enchanted by Aswan’s beauty.
Dutch filmmaker Elisabeth Francke was also honored for her impactful documentaries. She expressed gratitude for being part of the festival, praised the global power of film to inspire change, and raised a Palestinian scarf in solidarity with Palestine.
The festival also paid tribute to Egyptian star Lebleba, who voiced pride in receiving an award during a festival named after Umm Kulthum. Having starred in 97 films, she emphasized her lifelong commitment to delivering meaningful messages through her work and thanked the people of Aswan for their warm welcome.
In a recorded message, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, affirmed the role of art in awakening consciousness, calling for cinema that deepens national belonging and supports women’s causes.
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