As an avid fan of documentaries, I look forward to watching two recent productions that use the power of film to contribute to the evolution of Africa’s image on the world stage.
This is My Africa (Dir Zina Saro-Wiwa) is essentially a space for expression of what Africa means to different people, thus painting an image of diversity and richness of Africa that can not be confined to a singular view. After all, what is Africa and what does it mean to be African?
The documentary features well-known British personalities of African descent such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Yinka Shonibare, Paul Boateng and others, as well as lovers of the continent such as Jon Snow and Colin Firth. I love that this documentary is more than 50 minutes of film as it embodies a broader vision: This is My Africa is a movement for any willing person to contribute to rebranding Africa, such that Africa’s problems do not define her as they have and continue to do so in the recent past.
The TIMA movement recognises the power of culture to engender self-respect and understanding and it supports and promotes African cultures (both on the continent and in the diaspora). It is open to all Africa lovers wherever you are from in the world.
Check out the This is My Africa fan page on Facebook for updates on screenings (hat tip Kabfabulous).
Contact details: africalab{at}gmail{dot}com
Senegalese musician Youssou N’dour’s documentary I Bring What I Love (Dir Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi) is an intimate portrait of N’dour’s life, whose production stemmed from his requirement of a platform to address the misperceptions of his latest album, ‘Egypt’. An enchanting, meditative album intended to portray a different side of Islam and counteract that which fills our TV screens. A reminder of the beauty of Islam. It seems like kismet that N’dour who comes from a family of Griots in Senegal uses his voice to inspire others, but unlike the traditional Griots, his voice traverses boundaries and continents, making him therefore an embodiment of the potent evolution of his culture.
Check out the interview with N’dour on The Fader.
