4th Edition African Film and Arts Festival

Join us for an unforgettable cultural journey at the PVD World Music’s 4th Annual African Film & Arts Festival, back in Providence from September 13th to 17th, 2023!  We welcome you to celebrate the rich tapestry of contemporary African cinema and the vibrant sounds of music traditions from the African Diaspora.

This five-day festival shines a spotlight on rarely-seen films, highlighting the incredible talents of filmmakers from Africa and its Diaspora. From September 13th, the festival's Opening Night at the Watson Institute Africa Initiative Center will set the stage with the impactful film "Father’s Day” by Rwanda's trailblazing filmmaker Kivu Ruhorahoza. This event is not just about movies, it's about connecting with ancestral music roots – live traditional Kora music performances by Burkinabe virtuoso Yacouba Diabate will create an atmosphere of cultural resonance.

The festival's sails will catch the wind on September 14th at the open-air haven of 195 District Park. Here, you can enjoy Kenyan Film Supa Modo, followed by a performance by the talented NanaBCool.

As the festival continues to unfold, join us on September 15th at the historic Columbus Theater for a celebration of Senegalese cinema with Moussa Sene Absa's groundbreaking film Xale. This memorable night also introduces the USA premiere of the Short Film "Une Vie en Couleur” by Burundi's gifted filmmaker Lionel Nishimwe.

September 16th takes us to the Southside Cultural Center of Rhode Island, where the vibrant sounds and stories of Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Congo, and Burundi will fill the air. Explore a diverse array of films and immerse yourself in the unique musical traditions that have shaped these cultures over centuries.

As the festival's curtain falls on September 17th, join us for the closing ceremonies at Dexter Training Ground. Groove to the rhythms of live music by Baba Commandant and the Mandingo Band and savor the final screening of "Vuta N’kuvute" by Tanzanian Filmmaker Amil Shivji.

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our partners, collaborators, and sponsors, including the Rhode Island Council for the Arts, Providence Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism, 195 District Park, Columbus Theater, Southside Cultural Center of Rhode Island, and the Watson Institute Africa Initiative Center.

This is your invitation to a world of cinema, music, and culture. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us at #AFAF2023 for an enriching celebration of African arts and heritage.