Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan left a remarkable imprint at the 29th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO), showcasing his dedication to the advancement of African cinema through various initiatives under his KAP (Kunle Afolayan Productions) Group.
FESPACO, the largest film festival in Africa, is a biennial event held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, celebrating the best of African cinema while fostering collaboration among filmmakers.
Kunle stood out at the festival with a series of impactful activities, beginning with a special “KAP Day at FESPACO.”
The highlight of the day was his masterclass titled “Business of Cinema: Balancing Creative with Commercial Visibility,” where he provided insights into funding options for filmmakers.
The session, which drew a large audience, underscored the importance of balancing artistic expression with financial viability. His KAP Academy also received attention for its role in training aspiring filmmakers, equipping them with both creative and business acumen.
A major nostalgic moment at the festival was the screening of the 1978 classic Ija Ominira, directed by Kunle’s late father, Adeyemi Afolayan (Ade Love).
The film, which premiered at FESPACO decades ago, returned as a FESPACO classic, evoking fond memories among attendees who had personally known the late filmmaker.
Many praised the 49-year-old for his dedication to preserving and restoring his father’s cinematic legacy.
Adding to the excitement, Kunle also hosted a screening of his upcoming film RECALL at the Conseil Économique et Social (CES).
The yet-to-be-released movie, set to hit cinemas on April 4, 2025, received positive reactions from the audience, with many expressing eagerness for its official release.
Beyond film screenings, Kunle hosted an exclusive cocktail evening featuring Nigerian music and cuisine, bringing together filmmakers from across the world in a display of cultural exchange and camaraderie.
As the festival wrapped up, Kunle urged African filmmakers to remain committed to telling authentic stories, emphasizing the need for consistent output.
“Don’t limit yourself to making one film in five years. Try to make at least one film every year,” he advised, inspiring renewed dedication among his peers.
