The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) returns for its 13th edition from November 3rd to 9th, 2024, bringing a week-long celebration of African cinematic excellence to Lagos.
Hosted at AFRIFF Hub, The Palms, Oniru, this year’s event, themed “Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth for Global Prosperity,” aims to spotlight African narratives that bridge cultural and economic boundaries.
A Showcase of African Talent: Opening and Closing Films
AFRIFF 2024 will kick off with Headless, a locally produced film by Nigerian director Michael W. Ndiomu, while Obi Emelonye’s anticipated Out of Breath will close the festival.
These films encapsulate AFRIFF’s commitment to amplifying African voices and sharing stories that resonate globally, building a deeper understanding of African artistry and heritage.
Trailblazer Award to Honour Herbert Wigwe’s Legacy
During a recent press conference, AFRIFF founder Chioma Ude revealed the introduction of the Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award, honoring the Nigerian creative visionary Herbert Wigwe.
Moreover, this new accolade aims to recognize outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s creative economy.
The award, inspired by Wigwe’s substantial contributions to Africa’s creative industries, will celebrate Nigerian achievements across creative fields.
The inaugural awardees are Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to be presented by Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy.
Additional categories will recognize talent in Film, Music, Culinary Arts, Fashion, and Technology.
Dedicated Daily Themes Celebrating African Cinema
AFRIFF 2024, scheduled from Sunday, November 3, to Saturday, November 9, 2024, has structured its programming around thematic events to explore various aspects of African cinema.
Opening Night Premiere: The festival kicks off with an exciting premiere.
Herbert Day: This event honours Herbert Wigwe’s influence on Nigeria’s creative economy.
Co-Production Day: Focus will be placed on international film partnerships.
Animation Day: Celebrations will highlight African talent in animated storytelling.
Television Day: Participants will explore the impact of television on African narratives.
Afro-Unity Day: This segment emphasizes Pan-African collaboration within global cinema.
Closing Ceremony: The festival will conclude with the AFRIFF Globe Awards Night.
A Stellar Lineup of African and International Stars
AFRIFF will feature notable guests such as British-Nigerian actor John Boyega, Nigerian-British rapper Skepta, and Swedish-Somali filmmaker Filson Ali.
The festival will premiere key African titles, including Kunle Afolayan’s Recall, Basketmouth’s A Ghetto Love Story, and Showmax’s original Princess on a Hill, highlighting the richness of African storytelling.
Global Partnerships and Jury Announcement
With partnerships from the UK, US, South Korea, and Turkey, AFRIFF 2024 showcases the festival’s growing global influence.
This year’s jury features industry veterans, including Stephen ‘Dr’ Love, Ego Boyo, Dennis Ruh, Wafa’a Celine Halawi, among others providing diverse perspectives in judging the films.
Join AFRIFF 2024’s Journey from Indigenous to Global
AFRIFF invites film lovers, creators, and media professionals to experience an extraordinary journey of African stories that celebrate the continent’s cultural wealth and potential for global prosperity.
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