The story of the Umfolozi River will be brought to life on a giant screen this week as Umfula: Echoes of the River makes its FullDome premiere in Johannesburg.
The 30-minute immersive documentary will screen at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome on Friday, 16 October at 14:45 as part of the Fak’ugesi African Digital & Innovation Festival 2026.
Directed by Telmo dos Reis, produced by Cheryl Tuckett and co-written and narrated by Thando Fuze, the film follows the Umfolozi River in KwaZulu-Natal from its source near Vryheid through surrounding communities and ecosystems before reaching iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the Indian Ocean.
Shot in 8K for the FullDome format, Umfula combines environmental storytelling with the cultural and spiritual importance of water.
The documentary explores the pressures facing the river, including mining, pollution, agriculture and unsustainable resource use. It also features voices from traditional healers, farmers, activists, conservationists, tourism operators, park officials and local residents.
The project worked with organisations including Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the Global Environmental Trust, Mfolozi Community Environmental Justice Organisation and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Before its FullDome premiere, the original VR version was taken to six community events in rural KwaZulu-Natal, allowing people living along the river to experience the story. More community screenings are planned, while the VR version is also being prepared for release on VR platforms.
Dos Reis said the project aims to encourage greater responsibility towards South Africa’s water sources, highlighting the connection between water, culture, spirituality and survival.
The FullDome screening will be followed by a panel discussion exploring the river’s environmental challenges, cultural significance and the role of immersive technology in storytelling. Audiences may also get an opportunity to experience the original VR version using headsets.
Fak’ugesi runs from 13 to 17 October at the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Johannesburg under the theme “African Imaginaries”.
The Umfula screening forms part of the festival’s programme connecting African creative work, technology and new forms of storytelling.
The film will also be made available for community screenings around South Africa.
Main Image: Supplied
