Film Week Africa 2026 - A Global Platform for Cinema, Culture, and Industry

Film Week Africa is a premier gathering of cinema, culture, and industry, bringing together filmmakers, audiences, and global stakeholders in Lagos for a week of screenings, conversations, and creative exchange.

Taking place from October 4–10, 2026, the festival showcases a curated selection of African and international films, alongside industry panels, networking events, and cultural experiences.

At the heart of the week is the Africa Film Finance Forum (AFFF) — a dedicated platform connecting film projects with investors, studios, and partners through a focused summit and film finance market.

From red carpet premieres and public screenings to private investor meetings and gala nights, Film Week Africa offers multiple ways to engage with the future of storytelling on the continent.

Whether attending as a film lover, creative professional, or investor, Film Week Africa provides a space where stories are discovered, partnerships are formed, and the business of film moves forward.

Why Submit to Film Week Africa

Selected films gain access to:

🎬 A curated global screening programme
🤝 Industry exposure through the Africa Film Finance Forum (AFFF)
🌍 International audiences and cross-border visibility
🎥 Opportunities for distribution, co-production, and partnerships
📣 Press and media exposure

The Screening Programme

Film Week Africa presents a curated selection of:

Gala Premieres
African Spotlight
World Cinema Showcase
Documentary Programme
Freeway (Emerging Voices)
Industry Screenings

Screenings take place across cinemas, cultural venues, and open-air locations throughout Lagos.

Film Week Africa is a curated platform.

We prioritize films that demonstrate:

Strong storytelling
Clear creative vision
Cultural relevance
Global appeal

Due to the volume of submissions, not all entries will be selected.

Beyond the Screen

Film Week Africa operates alongside the Africa Film Finance Forum (AFFF), a platform that connects projects with investors, studios, and global partners.

Selected films may be considered for:

Investor screenings
Deal table sessions
Co-production opportunities

Before You Submit

Please ensure your film aligns with the festival’s curatorial direction.

Film Week Africa is best suited for:

Films seeking international exposure
Projects with strong storytelling and production value
Filmmakers interested in industry engagement

Awards & Prizes

AWARDS & PRIZES

Film Week Africa recognizes excellence in filmmaking across multiple categories, celebrating both established and emerging voices.

Selected films compete for awards, including:

Best Feature Film (Africa & International)
Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Freeway Film (Emerging Voices)
Best Student Film
Creative Excellence Awards

Winners receive a combination of:

Cash prizes
Industry access
Mentorship opportunities
Global exposure

Rules & Terms

🎬 FILM WEEK AFRICA — RULES & TERMS
GENERAL ELIGIBILITY
Films must be completed after January 1, 2024.
All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway.
Films must be in final or near-final form.
Non-English films must include English subtitles.
Submitters must hold all necessary rights (including music and third-party materials).
Multiple entries are allowed, but each requires a separate submission and fee.
CATEGORIES & RUNTIME

Feature Film (Africa & International)

60 minutes and above

Short Film (Africa & International)

Under 40 minutes

Documentary (Feature & Short)

Feature: 60+ minutes
Short: under 40 minutes

Freeway (Emerging Category)

Under 20 minutes
Open to first-time filmmakers, mobile films, and low-budget productions

Student Film

Under 40 minutes
Must be produced within a recognized academic program

Experimental / Art Film

Under 40 minutes
Open format and non-traditional storytelling
PREMIERE STATUS

Premiere status is not required but may be considered during programming.

SELECTION PROCESS
All films are reviewed by the Film Week Africa programming team.
Selected films will be notified via FilmFreeway and email.
All decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
SCREENING TERMS

By submitting, you agree that if selected:

Your film may be screened at Film Week Africa venues (cinemas, outdoor, and partner locations).
Clips, trailers, and stills may be used for promotional purposes.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES

Selected films may be considered for:

Africa Film Finance Forum (AFFF)
Industry screenings, investor meetings, and distribution opportunities

(Participation is by invitation only.)

SUBMISSION FEES
All fees are non-refundable.
Fee waivers may be granted at the festival’s discretion.
ACCEPTANCE & DELIVERY
Selected filmmakers must confirm participation within the stated deadline.
Screening copies must be delivered in the required format and timeframe.
LIABILITY
The submitter is responsible for all rights and clearances.
Film Week Africa is not liable for any copyright issues.
AGREEMENT

By submitting, you confirm that:

You have the legal right to submit the film
You accept all rules and terms
You grant Film Week Africa permission to screen and promote the film if selected

By purchasing this ticket, you agree to the following:

• All tickets are non-refundable except in the case of event cancellation
• Access is granted based on ticket type and venue capacity
• Some sessions operate on a first-come, first-served basis
• Tickets may not be transferred unless permitted
• Attendees must follow event rules and staff instructions
• Film Week Africa may capture photo/video content for promotional use
• Programme details are subject to change