Directed by Marie-Clémentine Dusabejambo, the film has been selected in the Un Certain Regard category. This section of the festival is dedicated to films that present unique storytelling approaches and often highlights emerging and innovative voices in global cinema.
It is the first film directed by a Rwandan filmmaker to be selected for this festival, following Munyarugabo, which was released in 2007 but directed by American filmmaker Lee Isaac Chung.
The film tells the story of Veneranda, a survivor of the Genocide against the Tutsi, who rebuilds her life and finds stability after enduring profound trauma.
However, her emotional wounds are reopened when her daughter faces an unplanned pregnancy, triggering painful memories from her past.
The cast features prominent names in Rwandan cinema, including Clémentine Uwimana Nyirinkindi, widely known for her role as Marigarita in Papa Sawa, who takes on the lead role of Veneranda.
Other notable actors include Isabelle Kabano, Nishimwe Kesia Kelly, Uwabeza Léocadie (popularly known as Nyiragitariro), Uwamahoro Antoinette (known for her role as Siperansiya in Seburikoko), and Tuyisenge Aimé Valens.
Prior to directing Ben’Imana, Dusabejambo built a strong reputation through her earlier works, including A Place for Myself, Icyasha, Behind the World, and Lyiza.
The film was produced by Samantha Biffot in collaboration with Rwandan producer Uwayezu Marie Epiphanie and Egyptian producer Mostafa El Kashef.
The 2026 edition of the Cannes Film Festival 2026 is scheduled to take place from May 12 to May 23 in France.
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