The event, attended by artists and industry stakeholders from across Rwanda, celebrated both the achievements of winners and the dedication of participants who contributed to the festival’s success. In addition to the cash prizes, two vehicles worth a combined 26 million Rwandan Francs were presented to winners in major categories, including actors Kecapu and Bamenya, each receiving a car as their grand prize.

Speaking to local media, Mashariki African Film Festival Director Tresor Nsenga emphasized that the awards were not only about honoring excellence but also served as a platform for constructive dialogue among participants. “Yesterday, we held a general meeting bringing together more than 100 award contenders, including trophy winners, car recipients, and those who did not win. We discussed the festival’s achievements and areas for improvement,” Nsenga said.

He added that all participants, even those who did not receive awards, were given cash incentives in recognition of their involvement in festival activities across various provinces. “We shared feedback on what went well, discussed challenges, and outlined strategies for the next edition,” he noted.

The festival also provided an opportunity to acknowledge Mashariki’s role in promoting Rwandan cinema, strengthen partnerships, and encourage ongoing support from sponsors, collaborators, and fans. Participants expressed their commitment to championing the industry, advocating for Rwandan cinema, and collectively improving the quality of local productions.

Over the years, the Mashariki Awards have become a cornerstone of Rwanda’s film industry, offering recognition and motivation for actors, directors, and production crews to elevate their craft. The awards provide financial support, professional training, and opportunities to showcase projects internationally, fostering both growth and ambition within the industry.

The festival plays a vital role in promoting Rwandan talent across Africa and globally, expanding visibility and market opportunities while boosting creative-driven economic growth. The ceremony’s impact extends beyond celebration, reinforcing the potential of Rwanda’s film industry and inspiring youth to pursue careers in cinema.

Winners of the Iziwacu Categories:
Best TV Series: Hurts Harder – Yves Mizero
Best Web Series: The Devil – Killerman
Best Actress: Antoinette Uwamahoro – 1,000,000 Frw
Best Actor: Irunga Rongin (Tukowote) – 1,000,000 Frw
Best Director: Yves Mizero – 200,000 Frw
Life Time Achievement Award (Male): Papa Sava – 500,000 Frw
Life Time Achievement Award (Female): Mama Zulu – 500,000 Frw
Best Director of Photography: Louis Udahemuka
Best Short Film: My Insight – Dusabimana Israel
Best Makeup: Usanzineza Abdoulkarim (Rambo) – 200,000 Frw
Best Costume Designer: Mutegwaraba Aldha
Best Scriptwriter: Mutiganda Wa Nkunda – 200,000 Frw
Best Editor: Akimana Olivier – 200,000 Frw
Best Gaffer: Maniraguha Vicent Afrika – 200,000 Frw
Best Supporting Actor: Uwihoreye Jean Bosco (Ndimbati) – 200,000 Frw
Best Supporting Actress: Kayites Alice (Linda) – 200,000 Frw
Best Upcoming Actress: Mumararungu Joanitha (Eyes) – 500,000 Frw
Best Set Production Designer: Mugwaneza Emmanuel (Sunzu)
Best Visual Effects Film: Incubation – Deus
Best House Media Partner: Chita Magic
Best Sound Engineer: Aboubakar Ngabo Nziza (Abuba)
Best Feature Film: Ibyahishuwe – Niyoyita Roger
Best Upcoming Actor: Mwitende Aboudurkalim (Burikantu) – 500,000 Frw

International Categories:
Best Short Film: Amazeze – Zimbabwe
Best Documentary Mention: Women’s Village
Best Documentary Award: Memories of Love Returned – Ntare Guma Mwine (Uganda/USA)
Best TV Series: Long Features Fiction
Special Mention: Kimote – Hassan Mageye (Uganda)
Best Feature Film of Mashariki African Film Festival 2025: My Father’s Shadow – Akinola Davies Jr (Nigeria/UK/Ireland)

The Mashariki Awards continue to serve as a platform for discovering talent, raising professional standards, and promoting a new vision for Rwandan cinema, while inspiring the next generation of filmmakers and creative professionals.