Exploring Opportunities in Africa

The distribution landscape for independent documentary films in the U.S. was contracting even before Congress decided to defund public media last year. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s demise, coupled with this year’s Skydance/Paramount merger are exacerbating this contraction. Add the anti-DEI movement’s chilling effect on corporate and philanthropic support for all things focused on equity issues and it is no wonder independent filmmakers in our community are looking overseas for new opportunities. For filmmakers and distributors who specialize in content that centers Black stories, this means exploring opportunities in Africa.

I attended the Sithengi Film Market in South Africa 19 years ago in search of new content. I left that market committed to acquiring three titles for public media distribution. Little did I know those titles would lead to the creation of AfroPoP’s first season. This week, MIP Africa is hosting its annual market, conference and exhibition event in Cape Town, South Africa.

Next month, the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is holding its market in Lagos, Nigeria. I haven’t attended either of these, but I am curious about the opportunities they might offer. AFRIFF mentions that a US delegation attended last year’s market. Were you part of that delegation? If so, hit me up and let me know what you thought. It’s too late for BPM to attend this year, but perhaps 2027? 

Of course, these markets are not immune from the challenges facing the film industry globally. And rightfully so, they prioritize stories that center African experiences. Still, globalization makes exploring possibilities for distribution and collaboration worthwhile.

Grow Your Network

If you can’t attend one of these African film marketplace convenings, consider attending kweliTV’s upcoming Black.Indie.Ignite. convening in NYC next month. While distribution is not the event’s focus, the gathering brings together Black indie filmmakers, immersive creators and creative technologists. The program will include meaningful conversations, wellness, networking, hands-on workshops, meals, Movies & Mimosas, and $5,500 in creator grants. A limited number of complimentary tickets are available for members of this community! Use comp code BII26GO to register.  I attended last year when it was held in Los Angeles, and it was a great opportunity to recharge, connect and thrive.

No doubt, recharging is needed — these are difficult times. But history reminds us that every disruption creates new opportunities. That’s where we need to focus. The Pew Research Center reports that Africa is the only major world region expected to maintain strong population growth through the end of the century. Projections are it will reach 2.5 billion by 2050 and 3.8 to 4.3 billion by 2100. To me, this means it is a market we’d be foolish not to explore. 

Don’t Miss Seeds

Before I close, I encourage you to watch Brittany Shyne‘s award-winning film Seeds, which premiered on PBS a couple of days ago. The film — which explores the past, present and future of Black farming and land ownership in the U.S. — is now streaming on PBS.org and the PBS app. The free streaming window closes Jan. 24, so don’t sleep.

Satellite image of Africa from space courtesy of NASA.