Rwanda has chosen Marie-Clémentine Dusabejambo’s post-genocide drama “Ben’Imana” as the country’s first-ever submission to the Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category. The film is set to represent Rwanda at the 99th Oscars, marking a milestone for the nation’s presence in the international feature race.
The decision follows a high-profile run at the Cannes Film Festival. “Ben’Imana” premieres in the Un Certain Regard section, where it wins major prizes including the Caméra d’Or and the FIPRESCI Prize. Sources also describe the story as focusing on survivors and the pursuit of justice and reconciliation in Rwanda, with the narrative shaped through the perspectives of women. Other outlet coverage frames the selection as part of the film’s broader momentum after its Cannes success.
