The 12th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is focusing on promoting indigenous content to a worldwide audience.
AFRIFF 2023 to Shine Spotlight on Indigenous Content from November 5 to 11 in Lagos
BY Fareedat Taofeeq
October 14, 2023
7:36 pm
The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is gearing up for its 12th edition, scheduled to take place from November 5 to November 11, 2023.
Chioma Ude, the founder of AFRIFF, unveiled this year’s theme, “Indigenous to Global 2.0,” emphasizing the festival’s commitment to promoting and projecting indigenous content on the global stage.
During a recent media briefing in Lagos, Ude highlighted the festival’s significance as a platform for learning and growth, spanning various creative disciplines, including filmmaking, makeup artistry, and design. Over 1,000 quality films are set to be displayed throughout the festival.
“This edition of the festival is important because creatives would be exposed to a series of learning, cutting across filmmaking, makeup art, designers, and more,” said Ude. “We need to understand international policies and laws to be able to sell our indigenous content globally.”
Prominent figures voiced their support for AFRIFF’s mission. Will Stevens, the Consul General at the United States Consulate in Lagos, expressed his anticipation for this year’s festival, stating, “This is all about building Nigeria for the world; America grew based on what people see about the nation, and I think it is now Nigeria’s time.”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State also underscored the state’s readiness to collaborate with AFRIFF organizers for a successful event. He noted that the 12th edition of AFRIFF would be the “biggest and boldest so far,” aligning with the economic agenda of the state.
“We are excited to be part of this; we believe that it is when we tell our stories that we are better understood and well embraced,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu. “The creative industry is the only industry that can bridge our shortfalls, an industry that knows no boundary.”
AFRIFF 2023 promises to be a cultural extravaganza, celebrating indigenous creativity while reaching out to the global audience, marking its place on the world’s cinematic map.