AFRIFF unveils 2023 programme, emphasis on indigenous content
AFRIFF unveils 2023 programme, emphasis on indigenous content
From left: Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, U.S. Consul General Mr. Will Stevens and Founder of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), Chioma Ude, at the briefing held at the State House in Marina
The 12th edition of the Africa International Film Festival is set to take place from November 5 to 11 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos.
With the theme “Indigenous 2.0 Global,” the festival aims to emphasize the importance of authenticity in connecting with a global audience.
AFRIFF founder, Chioma Ude, highlighted the potential for creatives to earn more globally but emphasised the need for upskilling to become global players. The festival will include training sessions covering various aspects of filmmaking, makeup, art designing, and more.
She said: “If you don’t think global, you won’t go global. This edition of the festival stands out due to the heavy emphasis on our films leaving a mark on the global stage.
“In line with AFRIFF’s ethos of capacity building, creatives would be exposed to a series of trainings cutting across filmmaking, makeup, art designing and more.
“We need to understand international policies and laws to be able to sell our indigenous content globally.
“Whether you’re a make-up artiste, filmmaker or designer, you’re going to be earning in dollars, and invariably such earnings will boost our economy too.”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced a $100 million African Film City project in Epe, Lagos State, to further empower Nigeria’s creative talents. The festival aims to contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s creative industry and elevate its global standing.
The goal, he said, is to further empower Nigeria’s creative talents, 5000 of whom he said had already been trained.
“We are doubling our financial and training support.
“This means more opportunities for skill development in modern filmmaking and increased grants for short stories. Elevating the creative industry is our goal,” the governor said.
He pledged his support to AFRIFF, adding: “We commit resources to anything that will boost creative minds.
“This 12th edition of AFRIFF will be one of the biggest and boldest.
“There is no better moment than now to work together to put forward our narratives that Africa is ready, Nigeria is ready, Lagos is ready.
“The creative industry knows no boundary and we’re happy to be part of this.”
