Beyond Peace - Story Of Goundam

Beyond Peace: Story of Goundam is a powerful documentary set in the harsh yet striking landscape of the southern Sahara, showcasing the extraordinary mission of peacekeepers who transformed a desolate area into a thriving, green oasis. The film follows the courageous journey of Moied Mohammad Robel and his team as they tackle the formidable challenges of extreme heat, water scarcity, and the threat of conflict in Goundam, Mali.

At the heart of the documentary is the story of survival, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between humanity and nature. With Anser Uddin Khan Pathan, a passionate wildlife photographer, leading the charge, the team defied the odds. Their efforts were further supported by key figures like Dr. Rumi, who found solace in nurturing young trees and her connection with a rescued cat, and Sreema Chakma, whose environmental conservation efforts were critical to the mission’s success. Their perseverance was ultimately rewarded when Goundam was recognized as the first green camp in Sector West by the United Nations in 2023, despite the escalating security threats from local conflicts and terrorist groups.

This documentary is not just a story of survival, it is a testament to the power of hope and community in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Audiences will be captivated by the personal stories of those who worked tirelessly to restore life to one of the most unforgiving places on Earth. The film serves as an inspiring reminder that, even in the bleakest environments, humanity's spirit can create something beautiful.

Status

Post-production | Seeking funding for final stages and distribution.

Team

Director: NH Tuhin

NH Tuhin is an emerging filmmaker from Dhaka, Bangladesh, with experience working as an assistant director at Half Stop Down and directing his own production house, Khoraak. His short film Escape received international recognition. Tuhin’s ability to capture human stories through his lens has already garnered him accolades, and Beyond Peace received a film finishing grant from Docfest Bangladesh and was selected for Dhaka DocLab.

Producer: Moied Mohammad Robel

Moied has a diverse background in film and photography and now works as a government officer in Bangladesh. He has extensive experience working behind the scenes on various film projects, contributing to his nuanced understanding of storytelling, production, and logistics.

Audience and Demographics

The primary target audience for Beyond Peace is documentary enthusiasts, ages 25–55, with an interest in humanitarian efforts, environmental conservation, and global peacekeeping. The film is expected to resonate with viewers who are concerned about climate change, international relations, and social justice. Secondary audiences include students and professionals in peace studies, environmental science, and international development.

Geographic Targeting

The documentary is expected to be well-received in regions such as Bangladesh, Africa (especially Mali and surrounding nations), France, and international markets with a focus on humanitarian issues and documentary films. These areas have cultural and geopolitical links to the film’s themes, particularly around the UN’s mission in Mali and the environmental and social challenges faced in the region.

Shooting Locations

• Goundam, Mali
• Dhaka, Bangladesh
• Field camps of UN peacekeepers
• Various locations in the southern Sahara desert

Unique Selling Points

• Compelling Human Stories: The documentary provides intimate access to personal stories of peacekeepers and local figures, allowing viewers to experience the emotional challenges and triumphs faced during the mission.
• Environmental and Humanitarian Impact: The film highlights the intersection of environmental conservation and peacekeeping efforts, offering a fresh perspective on the challenges of rebuilding life in a conflict zone.
• Global Relevance: The themes of resilience, environmental sustainability, and human connection are universal and relevant to current discussions on climate change and conflict resolution.

Similar Films

• Virunga (2014) – A documentary about the conservation of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo amidst armed conflict.
• The White Helmets (2016) – Follows the volunteer rescue workers saving lives during the Syrian civil war.
• The Cave (2019) – Chronicles the challenges of a female doctor in a war-torn Syrian hospital.

Release of Film

Projected release: Late 2024, pending final production and post-production.