We live in a world where the stories of our ancestors—their struggles, victories, and dreams—are often overshadowed by narratives that diminish their significance. Yet, through the power of African cinema, we can reclaim these stories, breathe life into them, and share them with the world in ways that inspire, educate, and unite. 

Storytelling has always been central to African culture. Performance has been a way to preserve history, impart wisdom, and foster community. The advent of film introduced a new dimension—a way to capture these traditions and share them globally. The need is well established, but  how do we actually reclaim our narratives ? 

Drawing inspiration from two monumental thinkers, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o and Steve Biko, this article explores how filmmakers can integrate African heritage into cinema to create compelling, authentic stories that resonate with audiences both at home and abroad. Ngũgĩ, a Kenyan writer and scholar, emphasizes the importance of preserving African languages and cultural identity in his seminal work, Decolonising the Mind. Steve Biko, a South African anti-apartheid activist, advocates for psychological liberation in his influential book, I Write What I Like. Together, their ideas challenge African creatives to reclaim their narratives and, in doing so, reclaim their power.

A Historical Perspective

In pre-colonial Africa, theatre was  a part of  daily life. It wasn’t a separate or elite art form but a participatory experience deeply embedded in rituals, celebrations, and storytelling sessions. Visuality was central—elaborate costumes, symbolic gestures, and communal dances transformed ordinary spaces into stages of profound expression.

When film arrived in Africa during the colonial era, it often carried narratives that erased or misrepresented African identities. However, in the post-independence era, trailblazers like Ousmane Sembène and Sarah Maldoror began reclaiming the medium. Their work laid the foundation for African cinema rooted in authenticity—a legacy we must continue by anchoring our cinematic expressions in the diverse cultures of the continent.

Film; A Catalyst for Consciousness and Development

Steve Biko’s assertion that "the most potent weapon in the hands of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed" underscores the urgency of cultural reclamation. Film, as a powerful visual and narrative medium, can awaken collective consciousness and counter decades of colonial misrepresentation.

Why We Must Embrace African Cultures and Languages in Film:

1. Identity and Self-Awareness: Showcasing our languages and traditions affirms their value and inspires pride in African identities.
2. Economic Development: The global appetite for authentic stories is growing. According to UNESCO, Africa’s film industry has the potential to generate $20 billion annually. Authentic representation can carve out a strong market niche.
3. Global Influence: Netflix’s investments in African productions, such as Queen Sono and Blood & Water, signal a growing recognition of the continent’s storytelling prowess. With nearly 570 million Africans now having internet access, a robust audience exists for content rooted in African experiences.
4. Cultural Diplomacy: Just as Hollywood exports American ideals, African cinema can reshape global perceptions and deepen understanding of our cultures.

Building a Robust African Audience

The idea that Africans aren’t an audience for African stories is a myth. Here’s the reality:

• Internet Penetration: Over 40% of Africa’s population has internet access, with numbers rapidly increasing thanks to affordable smartphones and expanding connectivity.
• Streaming Growth: Netflix reached over 2.61 million subscribers in Africa by 2024, with platforms like Showmax and IrokoTV also thriving.
• Youthful Demographics: With 60% of the population under 25, there’s a massive, tech-savvy audience eager for relatable and exciting content.

These facts highlight an opportunity for filmmakers to confidently create for African audiences while tapping into the diaspora and global markets.

Practical Insights for Filmmakers: Integrating Heritage into Film

Bridging pre-colonial art forms, modern livelihoods, and contemporary storytelling may seem daunting. However, it’s entirely achievable with thoughtful approaches. Here are some practical tips:

1. Research Your Roots:

• Dive deep into your community’s folklore, traditions, and visual arts.
• Collaborate with local historians or cultural custodians to ensure accuracy and respect.
• Example: If your community has a history of praise poetry, incorporate its rhythm into your dialogue or narration.

2. Language as a Tool of Authenticity:

• Feature indigenous languages in your films. Provide subtitles for accessibility but retain the linguistic essence.
• Use multilingualism as a reflection of Africa’s reality.
• Case Study: Films like Tsotsi and Lionheart gained global acclaim while staying true to local languages.

3. Visual Storytelling Inspired by Pre-Colonial Art:

• Borrow from the aesthetics of traditional crafts, textiles, and body art.
• Example: Incorporate the bold geometry of Ndebele murals into set designs or costumes.
• Use dance and movement not just as entertainment but as a narrative device.

4. Focus on Community:

• Capture the communal nature of African societies. Showcase how individual stories are tied to larger societal contexts.
• Utilize ensemble casts or narratives that interweave multiple lives.

5. Modern Livelihoods and Urban Stories:

• Balance traditional themes with the realities of modern African life, from bustling cities to diasporic experiences.
• Highlight the resilience and ingenuity of Africans in overcoming contemporary challenges.
• Example: Explore stories of African entrepreneurs using digital technology to thrive.

6. Collaborate Across Disciplines:

• Work with dancers, musicians, and visual artists to bring depth and texture to your films.
• Example: Partner with a local choir to create a soundtrack rooted in traditional harmonies.

7. Leverage Technology:

• Utilize mobile phones and affordable equipment to create high-quality films.
• Tap into virtual reality (VR) or animation to explore mythical or historical stories in innovative ways.

8. Stay Connected to Your Audience:

• Use social media platforms to share behind-the-scenes content, engage with viewers, and build anticipation.
• Host community screenings and facilitate discussions to gather feedback and foster loyalty.

Why This Matters: Beyond the Film

The impact of films rooted in African cultures and languages extends far beyond the screen:

1. Education: These films become learning tools, teaching young Africans about their history and heritage.
2. Unity: By showcasing diverse cultures, films can bridge gaps and promote pan-African solidarity.
3. Representation: Authentic storytelling challenges stereotypes and redefines African identities on a global stage.

De-colonise Your Mind

Ngũgĩ’s call to decolonize the mind and Biko’s vision of a self-aware African society converge beautifully in the realm of cinema. Film is not just entertainment; it’s a medium to honor the past, reflect the present, and shape the future. As African filmmakers, we have every reason to unabashedly celebrate our languages, cultures, and stories. The world is watching, and our audiences are ready.