The EbonyLife Group, in partnership with Kuramo Capital Management, proudly announces the Afro Film Fund’s groundbreaking participation in the prestigious Africa Investment Forum (AIF) boardroom sessions. Organized by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Africa Investment Forum, this platform connects transformative projects with global investors. The Afro Film Fund—a $50 million private equity initiative—was the sole creative-sector project selected from the continent for this year’s boardroom sessions, held from December 4-6 in Rabat, Morocco.
The Afro Film Fund is not just a financing vehicle; it is a game-changing initiative aimed at amplifying African storytelling on the global stage. By investing in high-quality productions, compelling narratives, and skilled creative teams, the Fund is poised to position African cinema as a competitive force internationally, engaging global audiences and delivering significant returns for investors.
“We are at a pivotal moment where finding African solutions to African challenges in the creative sector is no longer optional—it’s essential,” said Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife Group. “By leveraging our unique perspectives, resources, and talents, we can empower African storytellers, create opportunities, and shape a future that reflects the richness and diversity of our culture.”
As a leader in African media, EbonyLife Media has played a pivotal role in redefining the continent’s creative narrative. Founded and led by Mo Abudu, the company has produced globally acclaimed films and series such as The Wedding Party, Chief Daddy, Fifty, Blood Sisters, and Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman. By partnering with international platforms like Netflix, Sony Pictures Television, AMC Networks, Starz, Lionsgate, and Westbrook Studios, amongst others, EbonyLife Media has consistently delivered world-class productions that spotlight African stories with universal appeal. The company’s visionary approach and commitment to excellence have positioned it as a trailblazer, creating a blueprint for success in Africa’s creative economy.
The Afro Film Fund builds on this legacy by creating a bigger platform for filmmakers across Africa to bring their projects to life. A key feature of the initiative is the establishment of a technical advisory board, where filmmakers will pitch and fine-tune their ideas. This approach will ensure a pipeline of compelling, market-ready projects that celebrate African narratives while appealing to global audiences.
Wale Adeosun, Founder & CEO of Kuramo Capital Management, emphasized the transformative potential of the Fund: “The Afro Film Fund represents a bold step in unlocking the untapped potential of Africa’s creative industries. Our collaboration with EbonyLife underscores our shared belief in storytelling as a driver of economic growth, cultural pride, and global recognition. At Kuramo Capital Management, we are committed to leveraging our private equity fund management expertise to make this vision a reality.”
The boardroom sessions in Rabat offered an opportunity for real-time deal-making. Investors expressed keen interest in the Fund’s innovative approach and its potential to reshape Africa’s creative sector. Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, Technical Adviser to the President on Foreign Direct Investment, praised the Afro Film Fund as a landmark initiative: “This proposal represents a significant opportunity to tap into Nigeria’s thriving creative industry, which is already a multi-million-dollar market. The Nigerian government is committed to creating an enabling environment that attracts substantial foreign investment into the sector.” She went on to say, “Mo Abudu’s vision is truly commendable. The office of the Vice President is committed to securing this investment and fostering growth within the creative industry.”
The Afro Film Fund effort is further strengthened by Kuramo Capital Management’s exceptional track record. Kuramo Capital Management has catalyzed $3.5 billion in investments across African private equity firms and businesses, supporting over 650,000 jobs and improving the lives of more than 3,500,000 people. This expertise, combined with EbonyLife’s visionary leadership, is set to ignite a vibrant future for African storytelling.
