Chioma Ude Discusses Founding Africa International Film Festival

Chioma Ude founded the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in 2010 with a mission to create a hub for the African filmmaking community. The festival aims to connect African talent with the global film business and empower the next generation of storytellers on the continent.

Early Career and Inspiration

Ude, already an entrepreneur with experience in marketing and logistics, was involved in the ION International Film festival while working for the Nigeria Film and Videos Censors Board in London. This experience inspired her to launch a Lagos-based international film festival with a broader focus on the African continent. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating that the festival should represent the diversity of the African diaspora.

Growth and Impact

Fifteen years later, AFRIFF has become a pivotal event on the film festival calendar. The annual event, held in November, has trained over 10,000 young adults in 12 African countries through its AFRIFF Talent Development Program. The festival has facilitated international co-productions and welcomed prominent figures such as John Boyega, Ryan Coogler, and Ini Edo. In 2022, Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever had its African premiere at AFRIFF, accompanied by a masterclass led by the director.

Challenges and Funding

Ude, who also co-founded the Africa Foundation for the Development of Motion Pictures, Arts and Culture and production outfit LaVida Studios, has faced challenges in securing funding and demonstrating the festival’s value. Initially, reliance on government funding proved difficult, leading her to focus on building the festival’s industry and attracting sponsorship. The festival now relies on sponsorship and private funding, often partnering with Western organizations seeking relevance in Nigeria.

Future Developments

Ude highlights Africa’s young population (70% under 30) as a key driver for the creative sector. She plans to introduce a formal market component alongside the film lineup next year, believing it will elevate AFRIFF to the next level. There has been a noticeable increase in attendees from the African diaspora, prompting Ude to explore new partnerships within the diaspora and prioritize growth in this area. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adapting to industry trends to ensure the festival remains dynamic and relevant.