Ayo Makun’s Almajiri as directed by Toka Mcbaror and Uzodinma Okpechi’s Kamsi have been announced as opening and closing films for the maiden edition of the African Cultural Film Festival dubbed AFRICUFF. The festival, founded by notable writer, producer and director Emem Isong-Misodi is billed to hold as from October 26 through to October 29 at Emem Isong’s Royal Arts Centre in Houston, Texas.

While Almajiri based on true stories as it affects millions of children in Nigeria and other countries who are victims of trafficking and other forms of child slavery will open the festival on October 26, Uzodinma’s award-winning crime thriller Kamsi starring Wole Ojo, Sam Dede and Kiki Omeili will close the festival which is holding under the theme: Thinking Local, Going Global.

Speaking at a press event held on Tuesday to unveil films selected for the festival, Emem Isong whose production and directing credits include Ayamma, Knocking on Heavens Door, Lagos Cougars, Special Jollof and Cougars stated that the inspiration for the festival came out of the need to showcase the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and stories of the African continent.

“Africa is a place of unparalleled beauty and a well spring of artistic and creative expression. Yet, too often, the rich tapestry of African culture is underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream media and global narratives. This realization served as the spark for Affricuff,” Emem said, adding that the festival was conceived to serve as a platform that celebrates the incredible wealth of African culture through the lens of cinema.

“We believe that by creating a platform that will amplify the voices of African filmmakers as well as showcase their extraordinary talents, we can foster a deeper appreciation of African culture and promote a more accurate understanding of this diverse continent,’’ she added.

Besides the screening of films and the award ceremony, Emem Isong hinted that the festival will host a special African cuisine, music, dance and art exhibition section. “The idea is to create a holistic cultural experience. One that can be best described as unforgettable,” she enthused. Also speaking at the unveiling, notable filmmaker Lancelot Oduwa Imaseun said he was excited to be on the advisory board of AFRICUFF which as he remarked is “a unique festival that will break stereotypes, forge connections, and create opportunities for dialogue through the discussion forums, workshops and question and answers that will be held.” President of the AFRICUFF jury for 2023, Dr. Shaibu Husseini stated before announcing the nominees for the various categories of the festival award that AFRICUFF will feature films from various African countries and the Diaspora reflecting the kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and experiences across the continent and beyond.

Films with the most nomination that was announced and that featured in the best film category are Almajiri, Kamsi, Ifedichie, Twin Flames, Kuvah-Legend of the Sea and Obsession