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New Addis Ababa academy aims to strengthen local talent, foster international collaboration, and support the growth of Ethiopia’s audiovisual sector
Italy and Ethiopia have taken a significant step toward strengthening cultural and economic ties through the launch of a new initiative designed to support the development of Ethiopia’s emerging audiovisual industry. The program, titled “The Creative Hub Filmmaking Academy – Addis Ababa,” is a joint effort led by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), and Anica Academy ETS.
The initiative is part of a broader Italian strategy aimed at promoting the growth of creative industries across Africa. By focusing on professional training and hands-on production experience, the program seeks to enhance the technical and creative skills of local filmmakers while positioning Ethiopia as a competitive destination for international film productions.
Officially launched in March with the opening of its first training module, the program will culminate in the development and production of a short film created by participating filmmakers. This practical outcome underscores the initiative’s commitment to combining education with real-world application, ensuring that participants gain not only theoretical knowledge but also tangible experience in film production.
The introduction of cinema into the Creative Hub Ethiopia marks an important expansion of the country’s creative development efforts. Following earlier initiatives focused on fashion and design, the inclusion of the audiovisual sector reflects growing recognition of its potential as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and cultural expression. The film industry, in particular, offers opportunities to amplify local narratives while connecting Ethiopia to global audiences.
A key component of the project is the contribution of Anica Academy, which will develop an advanced training and production program covering the entire filmmaking value chain. From story development and scriptwriting to pre-production and principal photography, participants will be guided through each stage of the creative process. This comprehensive approach is designed to equip emerging filmmakers with the skills needed to operate effectively in both local and international markets.
The academy will also bring together experienced industry professionals and leading figures in film production, who will serve as mentors and instructors. Their involvement is expected to provide participants with valuable insights into industry standards, workflows, and creative practices, further enhancing the quality and impact of the training.
The initiative is supported by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and funded by AICS, highlighting the importance placed on cultural diplomacy and international cooperation. It is implemented by UNIDO in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Labour and Skills, ensuring alignment with national development priorities and workforce strategies.
Beyond technical training, the program aims to foster long-term collaboration between Ethiopian and international filmmakers. By strengthening local capabilities, Ethiopia will be better positioned to host foreign productions and engage in co-productions, opening new avenues for investment and cultural exchange. At the same time, the development of original content tailored for global audiences will help elevate Ethiopia’s presence in the international film landscape.
Francesco Rutelli, president of Anica Academy, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative, describing it as both a valuable project and a meaningful symbol of cooperation during a challenging international period. He highlighted the academy’s mission to nurture young talent through high-quality training, transforming passion and creative vision into concrete skills and real employment opportunities.
According to Rutelli, investing in the next generation of audiovisual professionals in a key African country like Ethiopia represents a strategic effort to support both industrial and creative development. It also serves to build bridges between cultures, professional communities, and markets, reinforcing the role of the creative sector as a platform for dialogue and collaboration.
As the global demand for diverse storytelling continues to grow, initiatives like the Creative Hub Filmmaking Academy have the potential to play a transformative role. By empowering local talent and fostering international partnerships, the program not only contributes to Ethiopia’s cultural and economic development but also enriches the global audiovisual landscape with new voices and perspectives.
Alessandro Fiorentino