The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) gears up for its 13th edition, set to take place from November 3 to 9, 2024, at AFRIFF HUB, The Palms, Oniru, Lagos. This year, the festival embraces the theme “Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth to Global Prosperity,” showcasing 150 films from Africa and its diaspora while fostering vital industry discussions and networking opportunities.

At the heart of this year's festival is the highly anticipated opening film, Headless, a gripping crime thriller by Michael W. Ndiomu. Chioma Ude, founder of AFRIFF, emphasized the film's significance, highlighting its ability to weave local narratives into a broader global context. “As African filmmakers continue to push boundaries, Headless reflects our commitment to authentic storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide,” Ude stated.

The festival is not just a platform for film screenings; it serves as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange and industry engagement. This year's lineup includes the closing film, Out of Breath by Obi Emelonye, which delves into Igbo culture through a rich tapestry of romance, action, and traditional proverbs.

AFRIFF's participation in international forums, including the recent UNGA 79 in New York, underscores its commitment to enhancing the global presence of African cinema. Ude discussed strategies with industry leaders, such as Bolaji Balogun of Chapel Denham, to leverage Africa's cultural wealth as a driving force for global influence and economic prosperity. Professor Benedict Oramsh’s keynote address reiterated Afrexim’s dedication to nurturing a brighter future for the African creative sector.

Highlighting the festival's role in fostering emerging talent, AFRIFF partnered with the University of Creative Arts to showcase films from its Afriff Academy. The initiative also included a competitive pitch session where 30 scriptwriters from across Africa presented their projects to industry giants like Showmax, Filmone, and Lavida Studios, culminating in three finalists hailing from Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda.

Founded in 2010, AFRIFF has established itself as a beacon of African cinema, celebrating the diverse stories that emerge from the continent. By prioritizing cultural narratives, the festival continues to empower filmmakers and create pathways for African stories to shine on the global stage.