Mpumalanga International Film Festival 2026 – Call for Submissions

Theme: "Stories That Belong – Voices That Matter"

In 2026, the Mpumalanga International Film Festival (MIFF) invites
filmmakers from around the world to bring stories that resonate,
inspire, and contribute to the growth of the global film industry,
rooted in authenticity, culture, and innovation.

We are committed to industry development in Mpumalanga while
fostering meaningful collaboration between local and international
creatives.

Through our valued partnership with Ster-Kinekor, all MIFF 2026 films
will be screened exclusively in cinemas, allowing filmmakers to
showcase their work on the big screen with world-class projection and
sound.

Key Festival Highlights for 2026

Cinema-Only Screenings: Every selected film will be shown at Ster-Kinekor Ilanga Mall.

Industry Development Focus: Dedicated to training, networking, and creating long-term opportunities.

WildM Market Program: Expanded to include a Script Submission & Development Track.

Networking Opportunities: Meet producers, distributors, and industry decision-makers.

Cultural Exchange: Strengthening collaboration between local and global storytellers.

Submission Categories

(Each category is open to both South African and international filmmakers)

   Feature Films

Narrative films over 60 minutes. All genres welcome.

   Documentary Films

Long and short-form documentaries highlighting important issues, personal journeys, and creative storytelling.

   Short Films

Fiction or non-fiction under 40 minutes, including student films.

   Animation

All forms of animation—2D, 3D, stop motion, experimental.

   WildM Program – Scripts

Submit your script to be considered for the WildM Market Program, a platform for story development and production matchmaking.

   Women Behind Cinema

Films directed, produced, or written by women, highlighting female voices in cinema.

   Local is Lekker

Films from Mpumalanga and other South African provinces that celebrate local culture and language.

Important Notes for Filmmakers

Affordability: Submission fees are kept minimal to ensure accessibility.

Selection Confirmation: All filmmakers selected must confirm attendance.

Travel & Accommodation: MIFF will not cover flights or ground
transportation. However, accommodation will be provided for the duration
of your stay.

Visa & Logistics: If you require a visa, please inform us immediately upon selection so that arrangements can be made in time.

Networking Priority: Selected filmmakers are expected to attend and
participate in Q&A sessions, industry panels, and networking events.

Key Dates

   Submissions Open: 11 August 2025

   Early Bird Deadline: 21 October 2025

   Regular Deadline: 15 December 2025

   Late Deadline: 15 January 2026

   Festival Dates: 2 – 9 August 2026

📌 Submit your film or script now and be part of a festival that is building the future of the film industry in Mpumalanga!

🌐 Submit via: www.miff.co.za

📧 Contact: 0722859919

📍 Venue: Ster-Kinekor, Ilanga Mall, Mbombela, Mpumalanga, South Africa