By Rinelda Mouton
Historical short film ‘When the World Broke Open’ inspired by one of the darkest chapters in Namibian history, the OvaHerero and Nama Genocide has been selected to screen at the Quibdó Africa Film Festival in Colombia in September.
The story follows Jorokee, a pregnant OvaHerero woman who survives the massacre of her family by the German army and embarks on a dangerous journey across the wilderness in search of safety in Bechuanaland, present-day Botswana.
Desiree Meiffret, writer, director and producer said the film is about resilience, survival, motherhood and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
She said the film showcases a history that has not been fully told for the world to truly understand its impact.
“The film is about people’s refusal to be wiped out. It honours the women and men who endured unimaginable suffering and fought to survive so that future generations could exist. We are here today because they refused to give up and this film is a tribute to that extraordinary courage,” Meiffret said.
She also had the privilege of screening her previous film “The White Line” at the Quibdo African Film Festival and a cinema in Colombia.
She said returning with another film showcases the relationships built over the years and to the growing appreciation for African stories in Colombia.
Meiffret said the screening is an opportunity to share Namibia’s history, showcase our creative industry and introduce audiences to the incredible talent we have.
“I am proud to represent Namibia on an international stage. I hope this screening opens the door to even more collaborations between Namibia and Colombia,” she noted.
“I believe this is just the beginning of a long-term relationship between our two countries through storytelling. I am genuinely interested to see how audiences respond to this film. What resonates with them? What feels unfamiliar? Sometimes those reactions teach you more about your own work than anything else.”
Meiffret added when bringing the film home they want to do more.
She said this time around they do not only want to have one screening in Windhoek, but hopes to take the film to Okahandja, Gobabis, Aminuis, informal settlements and other communities connected to the story.
“I keep thinking about the people whose history this is. They should be able to see the film, question it and respond to it. Otherwise, what are we really doing? If there is one thing I hope comes out of this, it is that more Namibians feel confident telling their stories without waiting for permission or validation. We have the material. We have the history. We just need to trust that it is worth putting on screen.”
