Kunle Afolayan became the star attraction at the recently concluded 29th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO). His presence was felt through a series of engaging activities, starting with a full day dedicated to his work, called “KAP Day at FESPACO.” On this day, he hosted an insightful and captivating masterclass titled “Business of Cinema: Balancing Creative with Commercial Visibility,” where he shared his expertise and offered invaluable guidance to filmmakers.
A renowned Nigerian filmmaker, Afolayan showcased his vision and commitment to the advancement of African cinema through Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP). His group played a pivotal role at the festival, reflecting his passion for fostering a thriving film industry in Africa.
FESPACO, the largest and most prestigious film festival in Africa, serves as a vital platform for celebrating African cinema. Held biennially in Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, FESPACO is known for bringing together the finest filmmakers from across the continent, promoting African narratives, and encouraging collaboration and partnerships within the film industry.
One of the highlights of Afolayan’s participation was the spotlight on KAP Academy, an institution dedicated to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. Afolayan emphasized the importance of not just mastering the craft of filmmaking, but also understanding the business aspects required to build a sustainable career in the industry.
In addition to his masterclass and academy presentation, Afolayan’s film, originally premiered at FESPACO, was honored as a “FESPACO classic” and was screened at the renowned Cine de Burkina. This screening, which delighted many attendees familiar with the iconic figure of Adelove, was a moment of nostalgia and celebration of the film’s cultural impact.
Afolayan’s parting message to filmmakers was one of inspiration and resilience: “Keep telling our authentic stories and don’t limit yourself to making just one film every five years.” His film, RECALL, which is slated for cinema release on April 4, 2025, was met with widespread acclaim during its screening at the Conseil Économique et Social (CES), leaving the audience eager for its full release.
The event was a powerful reminder of the rich legacy of African cinema and a tribute to the continuous growth and innovation within the industry.
