A total of 99 films will be screened during the 2025 Mashariki African Film Festival (MAFF) scheduled for November 22 through 29. The film screening, which will take place at Century Cinema in Kigali, is part of the weeklong festival will this time run under the theme “Creative Horizons.” Now recognized as one of the continent’s most influential film festivals, MAFF continues to shine a global spotlight on African stories while connecting filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals from around the world. The 11th edition will feature a lineup of 99 films — including 60 international selections and 39 local films, also known as “Iziwacu.” The international segment will showcase 13 feature films, 26 short films, 10 documentaries, 10 TV series, and one special screening, each chosen for its originality, powerful storytelling, and artistic vision. The Iziwacu lineup will highlight 12 feature films, 7 TV series, 18 web series, and two short films, underscoring the remarkable growth of Rwanda’s film industry and its emerging talent. ALSO READ: Mashariki Awards: People’s choice actor, actress to receive cars Organisers said that, beyond screenings, the festival will host an engaging series of masterclasses, industry panels, and networking events designed to foster collaboration and professional growth. A highlight of the week will be the International Content Market, held from November 23 to 25, where filmmakers and producers will have the opportunity to pitch projects, explore co-productions, and engage with international distributors. “This three-day market aims to strengthen Africa’s creative economy by connecting local talent to global platforms and facilitating meaningful partnerships across borders,” said MAFF chairman Tresor Senga. The week-long celebration of African filmmaking will close with the Mashariki Awards ceremony, honoring outstanding achievements in African cinema. Awards will be presented in categories such as Best Feature Film, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director of Photography (DOP), Best Sound Technician, and Best Scriptwriter. One of the most anticipated moments of the festival, the organisers say, is the People’s Choice Award, where audiences vote for their favorite actor and actress. The winners will receive a grand prize of a car, symbolizing the strong connection between filmmakers and their audiences and celebrating the rising stars shaping the future of African storytelling.
