The Story⚡
AFRIFF 2024 Celebrates African Storytellers with ‘Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth for Global Prosperity’ Theme, Introduces Trailblazer Award in Honor of Herbert Wigwe.
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The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) returns for its 13th edition from November 3rd to 9th, 2024, celebrating Africa’s rich cinematic heritage with the theme “Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth for Global Prosperity.” Hosted at AFRIFF Hub, The Palms, Oniru, Lagos, this year’s festival promises a landmark celebration of African storytelling, cinematic talent, and cultural pride.
The festival opens with Headless, a film entirely produced in Nigeria by director Michael W. Ndiomu and closes with the premiere of Obi Emelonye’s anticipated new film Out of Breath. These productions underscore AFRIFF’s commitment to spotlighting African narratives that resonate globally, connecting audiences to the depth of African artistry and heritage.
At a recent press conference, AFRIFF Founder, Chioma Ude highlighted the festival’s renewed focus on Nigerian and African stories:
“This year, we are emphasizing African talent and heritage, particularly our unique Nigerian flair. AFRIFF is all about celebrating who we are and showcasing the creativity and strength within our continent.”
Programming Roadmap
The Afriff Daily Themes are as follows:
- November 3rd: Opening Night film premiere
- November 4th: Herbert Day – Honouring Herbert Wigwe’s legacy in fostering a creative economy.
- November 5th: Co-Production Day – Exploring international film collaborations.
- November 6th: Animation Day – Showcasing African talent in animated storytelling.
- November 7th: Television Day – Highlighting the role of television in African storytelling.
- November 8th: Afro-Unity Day – Promoting Pan-African collaboration in the global film ecosystem.
November 9th: AFRIFF Globe Awards night and closing.
In Honor of Herbert Wigwe
Ude also emotionally announced AFRIFF’s intention to introduce the Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award, named in memory of Herbert Wigwe, a visionary in the Nigerian creative economy whose tremendous generosity to the festival and ardent support of the arts can never be underestimated nor forgotten. ”This award category will focus on celebrating Nigerians excelling in the creative fields, acknowledging Wigwe’s contributions to the growth of Africa’s cultural and creative industries.
The inaugural recipients include Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah, founder of the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. These two awards will be presented by Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy at the opening gala and premiere. The other categories will include the trailblazer awards in Film, Music, Culinary Arts, Fashion and Tech”.
AFRIFF partners with organizations from the UK, US, South Korea, and Turkey, underscoring its global reach and influence. This year’s event will continue to celebrate the collective efforts that make African cinema a beacon of cultural richness and pride worldwide.
The organizers also announced the jury members for this year which include Stephen ‘Dr’ Love, Ego Boyo, Dennis Ruh, Wafa’a Celine Halawi, Lanre Olupona, Victor Okhai, Cynthia Okoye & Yolanda Mogathusi.
For the full AFRIFF 2024 film selection, visit AFRIFF Official Selection.
