08-05-2025
Venda-born Murena Netshitangani makes history at Cannes
LIMPOPO – The Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has extended heartfelt congratulations to filmmaker Murena Emmanuel Netshitangani for making history by winning the Best African Film award at the 78th Annual Cannes Film Festival in France.
His acclaimed Tshivenda film, Lubunyu, captivated the international jury and brought global recognition to the rural roots of Venda.
Hailing from Makuleni village, Ha-Khakhu, near the mystical Lake Fundudzi in the Vhembe district, Netshitangani's victory stands as a proud moment not only for Limpopo but for the entire South African film industry. Competing against major film-producing nations, including Nigeria, his triumph marks a shift in the representation of African stories on the world stage.
The premier praised the achievement: 'This is a defining moment for the creative sector of Limpopo and South Africa. Murena Emmanuel Netshitangani has demonstrated that dreams nurtured in the quiet villages of Venda can echo across the world's grandest stages. We are immensely proud of him for carrying the heart of Venda, and indeed the spirit of Limpopo, to the world'.
Set against the backdrop of a village gripped by fear, Lubunyu – taglined 'A Village Under Terror'- aligned with the 2025 Cannes theme of confronting gender-based violence and femicide. Its cultural authenticity and bold narrative were credited for its standout success.
The premier also acknowledged the ongoing support of the Department of Arts and Culture and the Limpopo Arts and Culture Council for their efforts in nurturing talent across the province. She added that the soon-to-be-completed Limpopo Provincial Theatre would provide local artists a platform to develop and showcase their work without leaving their communities.
Murena and his team are expected to return to South Africa later this week, bringing home not only the prestigious award but also renewed hope for rural creatives across the nation.
Provincial Government celebrates this landmark achievement and commends Murena Netshitangani and his production team for uplifting the province and the country through the power of film, the premier concluded.
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