The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) returns for its 13th year from November 3-9, 2024. It aims to showcase Africa’s cinematic heritage under the theme “Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth for Global Prosperity”. This year’s event promises to be a landmark celebration of African storytelling and cultural pride.

The festival opens with Headless, a Nigerian-produced film by director Michael W. Ndiomu, and closes with Obi Emelonye’s highly anticipated Out of Breath, further emphasizing AFRIFF’s dedication to elevating African narratives on a global stage. 

A special tribute will be given with the introduction of the Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award, honouring the late Herbert Wigwe for his contributions to Nigeria’s creative economy. “This award will recognize Nigerians excelling in creative fields, commemorating Herbert’s legacy in the arts,” Ude shared. The inaugural awards will go to Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

This year’s AFRIFF lineup includes notable guests, which includes John Boyega, Nigerian-British rapper Skepta, and Swedish-Somali filmmaker Filson Ali. Among the premieres are Kunle Afolayan’s Recall, BasketMouth’s A Ghetto Love Story, and Showmax’s new original Princess on a Hill.

Each day of the festival celebrates a unique theme, including:

– November 3rd : Opening Night

– 4th : Herbert Day, dedicated to Wigwe’s impact on the creative economy

– 5th : Co-Production Day, exploring global partnerships

– 6th : Animation Day, highlighting African animation

– 7th : Television Day, celebrating African TV narratives

– 8th : Afro-Unity Day, promoting Pan-African collaboration

– 9th: AFRIFF Globe Awards and Closing

This year’s AFRIFF jury, comprising industry leaders like Ego Boyo, Dennis Ruh, and Yolanda Mogathusi, will bring diverse perspectives to judging the festival’s submissions. With global partnerships from the UK, US, South Korea, and Turkey, AFRIFF continues to amplify African cinema and its influence worldwide.