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Algerian series "Fatma" selected for Seoul International Drama Awards 2026
via Algérie3603 min read
The Algerian series "Fatma," produced by Roots and broadcast on Samira TV, has been selected for the 21st Seoul International Drama Awards. This marks Algeria's first entry into the prestigious festival, which will take place on October 8, 2026, at the KBS Hall in Seoul. The ceremony will be broadcast live on MBC TV and the festival's official YouTube channel. "Fatma" is among 352 submissions from 46 countries and regions, a record number for the event. The series will compete alongside productions from major platforms like Netflix, Apple TV, and Disney+, as well as Emmy and Golden Globe winners. The Seoul International Drama Awards has dedicated a section to new African voices, noting an increase from two African countries in 2025 to six this year. Algeria, Rwanda, and Togo are making their debut, joining Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa. "Fatma" is described as a historical drama set in 19th-century French colonial Algiers, depicting the lives and resistance of women under occupation. Directed by Djaffar Gacem and written by Mira Gacem Babaci, the series explores Algerian history through the lens of women often overlooked in official narratives. The series, which resonated with Algerian audiences during Ramadan, is produced by Khaled Babaci, son of Belkacem Babaci, who dedicated his life to preserving Algerian heritage. This selection highlights Algerian drama's growing presence on the global stage.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Algérie360.
Low-cost airline Volotea has introduced its first route between Spain and Algeria, connecting Valencia to Algiers. Flights are now available for booking on the company's website, with the inaugural flight from Algiers to Valencia scheduled for November 28, 2026. Initial one-way fares are advertised from 59 euros, with some tickets available for as low as 25 euros for December 1. However, prices are expected to rise significantly closer to the end-of-year holidays, potentially exceeding 200 or even 300 euros in December. Return flights from Algiers to Valencia also start at 25 euros for select dates in December. This new service follows Volotea's existing routes from France, primarily Marseille, to Algerian airports. Separately, Air Algérie resumed its Valencia-Algiers service on June 14, 2026, offering two weekly flights. This route is part of Air Algérie's expanded network to Spain, which also includes Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante, and Palma de Mallorca. Air Algérie's round-trip tickets for this route start from 57,259 Algerian Dinars, with one-way fares from Algiers starting at 41,770 DA, or 204 euros from Spain.
Samsung Electronics is participating in the 57th Algiers International Fair FIA, held from June 22 to 27, 2026, at the SAFEX exhibition center in Algiers. The company features an exhibition space in the Concorde Pavilion, highlighting its latest innovations and connected solutions. Visitors can explore three immersive areas: one for entertainment with wearables, fitness configurations, and gaming on OLED and Neo QLED TVs; a mobile zone showcasing the Galaxy S26 series with Samsung's agentic AI vision and exclusive access to the Galaxy A series A07, A17; and a smart home section demonstrating the SmartThings platform for security, comfort, and energy efficiency. Samsung also emphasizes its 20 years of global leadership in the TV market, with local industrial assembly in Algeria through a partnership with Sinova in Sétif. This partnership, initiated in 2023, involves CKD/SKD assembly of various products, including TVs, washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners, at a 75,000 m² industrial complex. The site produces 25 TV models and has achieved integration rates of 65% for refrigerators and washing machines, opening avenues for regional export. Johnny Jung, General Director of Samsung Electronics Algeria, stated that their presence at FIA underscores their commitment to Algeria, focusing on technology transfer, local talent training, and connected innovation with AI tailored to Algerian households.
Lyon's 6th arrondissement will see Bugeaud Street renamed following a decision by the ecologist executive, which acted on a favorable opinion from the History and Memory Committee. This move aims to remove the memory of Marshal Bugeaud, a controversial figure of 19th-century colonial violence, from the city's urban landscape. The decision to rename the street, previously dedicated to a "colonial torturer," comes after significant controversy and political debate. Aline Guitard, Deputy Mayor of Lyon, stated that a pre-selection of replacement names, gathered through various consultations, is underway. Samuel Soulier, Mayor of the 6th arrondissement, expressed his displeasure at not being personally informed of the decision, criticizing the lack of communication and debate with local officials and residents. A counter-petition with 1,200 signatures opposed the renaming, citing the financial and administrative burden on local businesses and residents. The city council will officially validate the renaming, after which Lyon residents will be invited to vote on a list of new names. The city also proposed retaining the Bugeaud name by renaming the street after Pierre Bugeaud, a member of the national committee for prisoners of war.