AFRIFF 2023: A Celebration Of African Cinema And Creative Excellence

The 12th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) 2023, under the guidance of Ms. Chioma Ude, concluded recently, marking a significant milestone in the world of African cinema. Embracing the theme “Africans for Africa,” the festival not only showcased an array of exceptional films but also became a nexus for empowering emerging and established filmmakers from across Africa and its diaspora.

This year’s festival was particularly noteworthy for its groundbreaking ‘Script to Screen Project.’ In partnership with Afreximbank through its Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) program, AFRIFF set a new precedent in nurturing talent and enhancing creative capacities, with a focus on screenwriting and content production. This year-long incubator and content creation acceleration program is a testament to AFRIFF’s commitment to elevating African narratives on global platforms.

AFRIFF 2023 offered an immersive experience, encompassing film screenings, masterclasses, workshops, and vibrant entertainment. The festival attracted filmmakers from all over Africa and the diaspora, each bringing unique stories and perspectives to the fore. The masterclasses and workshops, led by industry veterans, provided valuable insights into various facets of filmmaking, from financial management and entertainment law to distribution strategies.

The festival’s screenings showcased a rich diversity of films, culminating in the eagerly awaited AFRIFF Globe Awards. The awards night was a glamorous affair, honoring excellence in various categories and celebrating the outstanding achievements of filmmakers and actors.

The festival also included the prestigious AFRIFF Honours, recognizing luminaries in the Nigerian and African film industry. Esteemed actors and filmmakers were acknowledged for their contributions to the industry, underscoring the festival’s role in celebrating and elevating African cinema.

Full List of Winners at AFRIFF 2023:

– Audience Choice Award: “I Do Not Come To You By Chance”
– Access Bank Best Short Film: “Until 23”
– Best Documentary: “White Nanny Black Child”
– Oronto Douglas Best Feature Film: “Funmilayo Ransom Kuti”
– Best International Feature: “Brothers,” Directed by Darkhan Tulegenov
– Best Director: Ellie Foumbi for “Our Father, The Devil”
– Best Performance Male: Gregory Ojefua in “This is Lagos/Black Harvest”
– Special Jury Prize: “All the Colours of the World” and “White Nanny Black Child”
– Best International Short Film: “Nzu”
– Best Animation: “When Hearts Touch”
– Best Student Short Film: “Man and Masquerade”
– Best Screenplay: Tunde Babalola for “Funmilayo Ransom Kuti”

AFRIFF 2023 not only celebrated cinematic masterpieces but also fostered a community of creative minds, united in their passion for storytelling and cultural representation. As the curtains fell on this edition, the festival left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who participated, laying a foundation for a future where African cinema continues to thrive and inspire.