Creative energy took center stage at AFRIFF 2025, transforming the festival from a film showcase into a powerful hub for ideas, collaboration, and cultural dialogue. Over the course of a week of screenings, panels, and conversations, leading voices from film, music, fashion, and digital media explored how storytelling is shaping the future of African entertainment and positioning the continent on the global stage.
Afrobeats and African Film: Davido Leads “Rhythms of the Continent” Conversation
A major highlight was the “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeat Movement and Its Impact on African Films” panel featuring Davido, his manager Asa Asika, music video director Dammy Twitch, and film producer Blessing Uzzi.
The session unpacked how Afrobeats is influencing African cinema, from soundtracks and visual aesthetics to cross-border collaborations and audience reach. The speakers examined how the global rise of Afrobeats is amplifying African stories and reshaping the global creative landscape. Afrobeats continues to power African film culture, a rhythm that, as Davido put it, “keeps the heartbeat of the continent strong”.
Uche Pedro on Storytelling for Social Change
On another panel, “Behavior Shift: Influencing Change Through Narrative,” Uche Pedro, Founder and CEO of BellaNaija, led an engaging conversation on storytelling as a tool for social good.
She highlighted the untapped potential in amplifying under-the-radar creators and grassroots voices. While glossy visuals may attract initial attention, she emphasized that meaningful, authentic storytelling is what sustains audiences, builds trust, and drives long-term impact across African communities.
Music Meets Film: MI, Dr. Sid & Charles Opaleke on Profitable Synergies
During the “Cinematic Harmonies: Exploring the Synergies Between Music and Film for a Profitable Future” session, MI Abaga joined Dr. Sid and film executive Charles Opaleke to discuss the evolving relationship between both industries.
They explored the emotional power of soundtracks in film, the importance of more structured collaboration between musicians and filmmakers, and the need for better funding models to support creative projects across the continent. The panel stressed that when music and film are strategically aligned, they can unlock new revenue streams and deepen audience connection.
Women in Film: Ini Edo Champions Legacy, Focus & Confidence
The “Women in Film: Shattering Stereotypes Through Iconic Soundtracks” panel was another standout moment at AFRIFF 2025. Actress and producer Ini Edo spoke passionately about focus, consistency, and the importance of building legacies that outlive trends.
She encouraged women in film to remain confident in their voices, embrace their unique perspectives, and continue supporting one another on the journey to global recognition. The discussion underscored how women are redefining representation both on screen and behind the scenes in African cinema.
David Oyelowo on Authenticity and Global Opportunity
In a reflective fireside chat, Hollywood actor and filmmaker David Oyelowo shared deep insights on authenticity in storytelling. He spoke about the need for African filmmakers to stay rooted in their truth while embracing global opportunities and platforms.
According to Oyelowo, “The truth is the artist’s greatest responsibility.” He urged creators to resist the pressure to dilute their stories, instead trusting that honest, grounded narratives from Africa can resonate with audiences worldwide.
Fashion Meets Film: Afrobeats Style and Nollywood’s Evolving Visual Identity
The “Fashion Meets Film: Costuming & Afrobeats Style in Nollywood” panel offered an exciting look into the growing relationship between cinematic storytelling and contemporary African fashion.
Speakers, including Latasha Ngwube, Folake Akindele, Qing Madi, and Jennifer Oseh, discussed how costume design, music influence, and cultural aesthetics are shaping Nollywood’s visual identity. They explored the rise of Afrobeats-inspired styling on screen, the fusion of traditional and futuristic elements in character wardrobe, and the growing role of Nigerian designers in creating looks that resonate globally.
The panel also highlighted how fashion is becoming a powerful narrative tool, helping to define characters, set the mood, and export African creativity to international audiences.
AFRIFF 2025: Beyond Film Screenings
AFRIFF 2025 once again proved that the festival is more than just a film screening event. It is a platform where culture, creativity, and commerce intersect to move African storytelling forward.
By bringing together pioneers like Uche Pedro, David Oyelowo, MI Abaga, Davido, Folake Akindele, and many others, AFRIFF continues to position itself as a driving force in the evolution of African film, music, and fashion, and a key player in shaping the future of the continent’s creative economy.
