Going Global: What’s Next for the African Filmmaking Industry


For most filmmakers being selected to compete in the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, and achieving the international recognition that comes with it, is a career highlight. This is no different for African filmmakers. However, only a select few have made it. 

Today, as discussion around diversity and inclusion play a more prominent role in the filmmaking industry as whole, questions are being asked about international representation at global events, such as the Cannes Film Festival. Answers to these questions often circle back to how we can help to grow local and regional filmmaking industries.

The African filmmaking industry has been maturing slowly but surely, evolving at the rhythm of the continent. Thanks to technological advancements, the industry is now finally able to expand. However, there are still some challenges keeping the industry from achieving its full potential and these should be addressed on the continent first. 

As a matter of fact,  there are several different film industries within Africa itself, based on geographical regions and spoken languages, and this particularity should be use to our advantage. Only by cultivating and nurturing homegrown talent from across the continent, will we be able to achieve a truly Pan-African film industry. 

I believe achieving regional recognition is the foundation of achieving international acknowledgement. Our priority should be to cement the various film industries present across the continent to strengthen the overall African industry, and in turn positively impact international perception of the industry as a whole.

In my latest blog, I make a case for regional recognition and how beneficial it will be for the continent’s filmmaking industry. To find out more, please visit: https://africaprimeinitiative.com/going-global-whats-next-for-the-african-filmmaking-industry/  

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