MBABANE- The Eswatini film scene continues to gain international recognition as A Dream (Liphupho), produced by Ayeye Entertainment, celebrates its 8th official film festival selection, marking another milestone in its growing global journey.
Written and directed by Siphosethu Sibandze, with music by Bahle Shongwe and production support from Luda Films Productions, the film has steadily built a reputation as one of Eswatini’s most promising cinematic works.
A journey from local stages to global screens
Since its release, Liphupho has screened across several respected platforms, including the Matsulu Film Festival, eMalahleni Film Festival, and the FestacWood International Film Festival, alongside selections at the Uhuru Film Festival and Waterloo Film Festival.
The production also earned a major breakthrough in 2025 when it won Best Feature Film at the Uhuru Film Festival, its first international award, setting the tone for an impressive festival run that followed.
2026 continues the momentum
The film’s latest achievement is its selection for the Mpumalanga International Film Festival 2026, adding to its growing list of international recognitions and confirming its second festival selection for 2026.
From community beginnings to international screens, the film’s journey reflects a steady rise rooted in passion, collaboration, and persistence.
Built from community support
The project was first launched with the support of the Alliance Française de Mbabane, which provided space and post-production sponsorship. It later reached wider audiences through screenings at Movie Zone Cinemas, The Gables, and educational platforms such as the EU Bushfire Schools Festival.
The cast and crew include talents such as Nqobile Mavuso, Akahle Ntjalintjali, and Gift Shongwe, alongside a wider creative team that helped bring the vision to life.
“From Eswatini to the world”
With eight official selections and counting, Liphupho stands as a symbol of Eswatini’s growing footprint in global cinema.
“From Mbabane premieres to international festivals, this journey belongs to everyone who believed in it,” the team shared.
As the film continues its festival run, Liphupho carries a simple but powerful message: Eswatini stories deserve a global stage, and they are finally getting it.
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