The Nairobi Earth Film Festival is the first environmental film festival of its kind in Nairobi - a city globally recognized as a center of environmental policy and activism.

Taking place on 26–28 June 2026, the festival is designed to spark critical conversations about the relationship between people and the planet, with a strong focus on Africa.

Running over three days, the festival will bring together a broad audience: filmmakers, conservationists, students, educators, cultural professionals, institutions, and the wider public.

It will offer a curated program of screenings, masterclasses, keynote talks, interactive panel discussions, and creative workshops, all centered on the environmental challenges and resilience of African communities.

Awards & Prizes

NEFF celebrates outstanding films that demonstrate excellence in storytelling, creativity, and environmental awareness across all categories.

WHY ENTER NEFF?
• Gain continental and global visibility
• Screen at a leading African environmental film festival
• Connect with policymakers, funders, and conservation leaders
• Join a growing movement using film for real-world environmental impact
• Network with filmmakers, distributors, and content buyers
• Engage directly with passionate audiences

ELIGIBILITY & FILM LENGTHS
• Best Film – 40–90 minutes
• Best International Documentary – 40–90 minutes
• Best Director – 20–90 minutes
• Best Cinematography – 10–90 minutes
• New Generation Award (Under 35) – 1–40 minutes
• Best Short Advocacy Film – 1–10 minutes (max 15 minutes)
• NEFF Honorary Award – Non-submission category

Rules & Terms

1. All submitted films must have been shot in Africa, either fully or partially, and should reflect African stories, landscapes, communities, or environmental themes. All submitted films must have been produced no more than two years ago.
2. The only exception is the Best International Documentary category, which is open to films produced outside Africa but focused on NEFF’s priority themes in Africa.
3. Films must address themes related to Climate Change & Community Resilience, Wildlife Conservation & Human–Wildlife Coexistence, Forests, Land & Ecosystem Restoration, Water, Oceans & Blue Economy, Advocacy & Environmental Impact Stories (“Our Champions”)
4. Entrants must own or have secured all necessary rights, permissions, and licenses for submitted content.
5. NEFF reserves the right to screen selected films during festival events, partner screenings, and promotional activities with full credit to filmmakers.
6. Submission of a film confirms acceptance of all festival rules and terms.

WHO CAN ENTER
• Filmmakers (local & international)
• Production companies & studios
• NGOs & institutions
• Students & emerging creatives

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway as an online screener.
Accepted formats:
• MP4 (H.264)
• MOV
Selected films must be available in:
• DCP (Digital Cinema Package) or
• High-quality ProRes files for screening
Language:
• Films may be in any language
• All non-English films must include English subtitles