Since launching in 1999, Encounters has become a platform for documentary storytelling from Africa and beyond, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, students and audiences through screenings, discussions and industry programmes.
The 2026 edition hosted events across Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria, with screenings, Encounters Talks and community initiatives creating opportunities for filmmakers and audiences to engage.
Festival director Mandisa Zitha says documentary cinema can challenge perspectives and bring audiences closer to experiences beyond their own. The festival aims to create space for these stories while connecting filmmakers with audiences.
The festival has also continued its focus on developing opportunities and greater representation within the film industry.
In October 2026, festival manager Tarha McKenzie signed the reel balance pledge on behalf of Encounters at the 17th Durban FilmMart. The Pan-African initiative promotes gender equity across African film festivals.
The 2027 programme will accept African and international documentaries across four categories: feature-length films of 50 minutes or longer, and short documentaries under 50 minutes.
Films must have been completed after 1 January 2025. Submissions are open through Film Freeway, with the following deadlines:
Enquiries can be directed to info@encounters.co.za.
The 29th Encounters South African International Documentary Festival takes place from 3-13 June 2027.
