AFRIFF History
With its Inagural edition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, The Africa International Film festival was founded in 2010 by Ms Chioma Ude, an ardent film lover and entrepreneur. Her passion for the industry grew more intense after her involvement in the production of the 2007 Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) UK Roadshow.
Ms Ude then went on to produce the 2008 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) during which she instituted the philanthropic arm of the awards by conceiving the AMAA Charity Benefit. This novel initiative was designed to be an annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) platform for industry practitioners and stakeholders to give back to society. Later, in 2009, Chioma was the local producer of the ION International Film Festival (IONIFF), a global touring festival originating from Hollywood, whose aim is to promote global awareness and peace through arts, culture and films. The event was held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State in Nigeria.
AFRIFF Vision
AFRIFF’s vision is to raise awareness about African Cinema, its vast potentials and the tremendous socio-economic impact it has not only on african economies but other third world and developing economies as well. To use cinema to create a revolution that will change the social and economical horizon of Africa, by providing the wherewithal to the abundant talents resident in our communities to rise up and reach for their ideals. Establish bridges for partnership with international counterparts to ensure quality, expertise and global standards access the local film industries, accelerating their development sustainably. AFRIFF also aims to re-establish Africa’s significance as the original birth home of civilization and indeed the last frontier for unique film stories and content.
“Africa Unites” is a theme that draws on the principle that being African is a bond that goes beyond geography, birth or lineage; as people of African origin are spread across the globe and Africa is also a proud home to many non-Africans. The vision is to reflect a common true African identity and re-establish Africa as an original home to all. Africa has been able to capture the world’s attention through its ancient cultural heritage and beginnings of civilisation. With films it will have the power to connect people from around the world, creating common ground hence promoting boundless unity.
Film is a powerful platform that is better able to attract and engage people in constructive activity and providing enjoyment, enlivening spaces and enriching lives. It also makes a practical contribution in terms of sustainability, providing employment, encouraging learning and inspiring people to adopt creative and active lifestyles. The Africa International Film Festival deliberately commits to the ideals of empowerment and creative engagement. Through its investment in the development of local creative talents, it keeps faith with the next generation, dissipating positive messages and reinforcing to the local and international audiences, the immense potential abound throughout the continent.
