The African Film Forum 2025, hosted by the iKON Awards at the Reach A Hand Headquarters in Lungujja, brought together some of the most influential figures in African cinema to discuss the future of storytelling on the continent. With the theme “Back to Our Roots,” the event focused on the importance of authenticity, representation, and cultural preservation in filmmaking.
Prominent industry figures, including Ramsey Nouah, Joy Odiette, Kanayo O Kanayo, Patience Ozokwor, Rita Ngenzi, and Chris Odeh, led discussions on how African filmmakers can ensure their narratives remain true to their heritage. Nouah emphasized the importance of personal experiences in storytelling, encouraging filmmakers to tell their own stories rather than adopting foreign narratives. “I want to hear the stories of Africans, Australians, Jamaicans, and others from their own perspectives. Let’s celebrate the diversity of human experiences and empower each other to share our authentic stories,” he stated.
Emmanuel Amimo
Patience Ozokwor echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that a director should choose actors based on their cultural and personal experiences to enhance authenticity. Kanayo O Kanayo pointed to Nollywood’s success, attributing it to the use of native accents and languages, which fosters a deep connection with audiences. “Telling our stories in our own accent is not just about language, it’s about preserving our heritage and forging an authentic connection with our audience. Our authenticity is our greatest asset,” added Emmanuel Amimo.
The discussion also highlighted the challenges facing the African film industry, including political instability, lack of infrastructure, and technical skill gaps. Joy Odiette stressed the need for better monetization strategies to help African cinema reach a global audience.
Ramsey Nouah
Chris Odeh reflected on the impact of last year’s forum, asking attendees how the 2024 edition influenced their careers. Isa Masadde Yosuf, a 2025 iKON Awards nominee for his role in Soccer Heart, shared that lessons from the previous year’s forum contributed to his latest success.
The event reaffirmed that African filmmakers can shape the industry’s future by embracing their roots and prioritizing authenticity. The iKON Awards remain committed to fostering an environment where African stories, voices, and perspectives continue to thrive. The next African Film Forum is scheduled to take place ahead of the iKON Awards 2026.
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