The Gabonese Minister of Communication and Media, Germain Biahodjow, received an audience from the Cuban Ambassador to Gabon, Alex González Garcia, on July 13th in Libreville. This first official meeting has laid the groundwork for a renewed partnership in strategic communication, audiovisual, and film sectors.
Following this meeting, the diplomat expressed his satisfaction with the ‘very fruitful’ exchanges, conducive to identifying major development axes. While the reinforcement of media’s role in accompanying bilateral diplomacy was extensively discussed, discussions went beyond that framework,
The two personalities explored convergence points touching key sectors of public life, such as education, agriculture, and film industry. They also shared a common ambition to coordinate their positions globally within international communication organizations.
Expertise from Cuba in Support of Gabonese Cinema
The technical and pedagogical aspect is envisioned as one of the pillars of this future collaboration. In response to questions about the future of professionals in the sector, Alex González Garcia reaffirmed his country’s willingness to support the strengthening of capacities among technicians, journalists, and filmmakers from Gabon.
Cuba boasts a renowned international film school, which has already seen numerous generations of African students pass through its doors.
Towards Concrete Academic Exchanges
To materialize this alliance, concrete discussions are underway. Authorities are studying the possibility of awarding scholarships to Gabonese students so they can integrate these prestigious island-based courses. In return, the agreement provides for the sending of Cuban teachers and experts to Gabon for specialized training in radio, television, and filmmaking.