In Kigali, when the lights dim and the screen flickers, the Mashariki African Film Festival (MAFF) brings together stories, cultures, and the future of African cinema. Since its first edition in 2015, MAFF has grown into Rwanda’s most significant cinematic event and one of the continent’s most dynamic cultural platforms. The word Mashariki, meaning “East” in Kiswahili, reflects both its roots in the region and its mission to connect African cinema to the world.
Founded by Tresor Senga, the festival was created to provide a homegrown stage where African filmmakers could meet, exchange ideas, and showcase their work. Like many global events, it paused during 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Its return underscored its importance, positioning Kigali as a hub for filmmakers and audiences eager to see Africa’s stories on screen.
Mission and vision
MAFF believes film is a powerful way to tell Africa’s diverse stories. Its mission is to showcase African talent, lift new voices, and connect filmmakers with audiences worldwide.
The festival envisions a future where African cinema is recognized globally—not only for artistic quality but also for its ability to inspire change, bridge cultures, and foster understanding.
A decade of growth
From modest beginnings, MAFF has become a launchpad for collaboration and innovation. By its 10th anniversary in 2024, the festival had matured into a continental gathering point. That edition featured Masharket, a business-to-business content market linking filmmakers with producers, broadcasters, and investors.
Capacity-building has been central to its growth. Workshops and masterclasses, organized with partners like Youth Connect and Sony, provided filmmakers with tools to compete internationally. Voices like festival coordinator Leonel Kayitare and Ugandan filmmaker Jenipher Nankabirwa highlighted its impact, pointing to cross-border productions and the rise of Rwandan filmmakers.
For audiences, MAFF is more than screenings. It is an annual celebration where Kigali residents and visitors experience African cinema through packed halls, community screenings, and post-film discussions.
Recognizing excellence
MAFF’s awards reflect the diversity of African storytelling. Official categories include Best Long Feature Fiction, Best Feature Documentary, Best Short Film, Best TV and Web Series, and Best East African Short Film. Iziwacu Films highlights local talent with prizes for Best Rwandan Short Film and Best Promising Filmmaker. Independent awards, like the SIGNIS Award, recognize films that tackle social and ethical issues, amplifying stories that inspire reflection and change.
In 2024, the festival also introduced the New Horizons category for works using technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality—showing that African cinema is experimenting boldly with both form and content.
Photos from last year’s Mashariki Film Festival
Looking ahead: The 11th edition
Now entering its 11th edition, MAFF is building on its legacy while moving in bold new directions. Organizers have expanded recognition beyond performers to honor technical teams—editors, cinematographers, sound designers, and others whose work shapes stories behind the scenes.
The festival is also raising the stakes for audiences. This year, the People’s Choice actor and actress of the year will each win a car, marking the festival’s most high-profile prizes yet. Nominees will tour districts across Rwanda, engaging directly with communities and giving fans a chance to know them before voting. It’s a reminder that cinema here is not just entertainment—it’s a living dialogue between artists and audiences.
The 11th edition of the Mashariki African Film Festival will take place in Kigali from November 22nd to 29th, 2025, under the theme “Creative Horizons.” Alongside the screenings, Masharket: Kigali International Content Market will run from November 27th to 29th, 2025, creating opportunities for filmmakers, producers, broadcasters, and investors to connect.
A platform for the future
What began as a small initiative has grown into a festival that embodies the ambitions of African cinema. MAFF is a showcase, a catalyst, and a place where stories, partnerships, and futures are forged. After ten years of laying foundations, the next decade promises to redefine how African cinema reaches audiences—with Kigali and the Mashariki African Film Festival leading the way.
