Kinshasa, July 12th, 2026 (CPA). – The publication in the Official Gazette of the decree establishing, organizing and regulating the National Congolese Cinema Centre (CNCC) by the Ministry in charge of Culture, Arts and Heritage has been welcomed by film professionals in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to a statement consulted by CPA on Sunday. « The creation of the CNCC represents far more than an administrative reform. It lays the foundation for stronger governance of the sector, improved organization of the industry and renewed momentum for the development of Congolese cinema, » the statement issued by the Congolese Association of Cinematographic Enterprises (GECC) read. « This decision marks a historic milestone in the structuring of our country’s film industry, » the organization added, praising the Government’s initiative through the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage.
The decree follows the adoption by the Council of Ministers in February 2026, after review and deliberation, of a draft submitted by Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Yolande Elebe establishing the organization and functioning of a public institution dedicated to the emergence of Congolese cinema and the development of appropriate film infrastructure across the country. At a time when the DRC has also established its National Oscars Selection Committee, the GECC believes that this development confirms that the country is gradually entering a new era for its film industry. According to the statement, the challenge now is a collective one: « to transform this legal achievement into a genuine film industry capable of creating strong companies, skilled jobs, investment opportunities, internationally competitive productions and sustainable global recognition. » « The GECC reaffirms its readiness to work, within the framework of each institution’s mandate, with the National Congolese Cinema Centre, public authorities and all stakeholders in the sector in order to help build a modern, competitive and value-creating film industry for the Democratic Republic of Congo, » the organization said, congratulating all institutions and stakeholders who contributed to this major breakthrough for Congolese cinema. « The world’s great film industries are born when the vision of creators meets the strength of institutions. The establishment of the CNCC creates that opportunity. It is now up to all of us to make it a genuine engine of development for the DRC. When cinema inspires, the people awaken, » the statement concluded.The GECC is a professional organization bringing together Congolese film companies with the mission of structuring, developing and promoting the film industry of the Democratic Republic of Congo.