EDDIE Mbalo, chief executive of the National Film and Video Foundation, was honoured at Cannes Film Festival this week alongside two other African film luminaries.

The Hollywood Reporter, in association with Agoralumiere International, on Monday held a reception in honour of Mbalo. The event, attended by the who's who of the international film industry professionals, was held at the Hollywood Reporter Pavilion at the Cannes International Film Festival in France.

Mbalo was honoured for his dedication as a creative defender of African cinema. Other African greats who were celebrated were African actor Eriq Ebouaney and Marie-Roger Biloa, a dedicated journalist.

Receiving his African Vision Award for Creative Engagement in African Film Industry Development, Mbalo said: "This is such a great surprise. It is gratifying that my contribution and passion toward the growth of African cinema are being noticed."

Biloa said: "I'm honoured that somebody recognises my efforts over the years in reporting the development of African Film. I hope this recognition will encourage the youth to dream as big as I did."