The highly anticipated 2024 edition of the iREPRESENT International Documentary Film Festival is set to captivate audiences from March 21st to 24th, both in Lagos, Nigeria, and virtually. Organised by the Foundation for Promotion of Documentary Film Festival in Africa (FPDFA), this annual event has become the premier platform for promoting documentary filmmaking in Nigeria and West Africa.
With its founding theme “Africa in Self-Conversation,” the iREP Festival, established in 2010, aims to foster dialogue and exchange of ideas among Africa’s diverse communities and the global black family. Now in its 14th edition, iREP 2024 promises an enriching program featuring conversations, screenings, workshops, networking sessions, and more.
This year, over 45 compelling films, including shorts and feature-length documentaries, will be showcased at two main venues: Freedom Park on Lagos Island and Alliance Francaise at the Mike Adenuga Centre in Ikoyi. Filmmakers from Nigeria and 25 other countries across four continents have submitted their entries via Filmfreeway. Additionally, specially curated films, some of which have garnered international acclaim and awards, will be highlighted during the festival.
The theme for iREP 2024, “Righting the Future,” has been strategically chosen to spark discussions on the continent’s present challenges and future prospects. Against the backdrop of political upheavals and leadership crises in various African nations, the theme seeks to encourage intergenerational dialogue and reflection.
Dubbed “The Soyinka Edition,” iREP 2024 commemorates the 90th birthday of Professor Wole Soyinka, Africa’s first Nobel laureate in Literature. A towering figure in global culture, Professor Soyinka epitomizes the ideals of a citizen activist, advocating for human rights, good governance, and participatory democracy throughout his illustrious career.
The festival will dedicate two days to celebrating Soyinka’s legacy, featuring keynote addresses and panel discussions at Alliance Francaise, Mike Adenuga Centre. Renowned scholars and cultural theorists, including Prof. Manthia Diawara and Prof. Awam Amkpa from New York University, will examine Soyinka’s engagements and humanistic ideals reflected in his works. Screenings of films related to Soyinka’s career will complement these insightful discussions.
As an educational and cultural platform, the iREPRESENT International Documentary Film Festival aims to promote public engagement with socio-cultural and political issues through the medium of film. By harnessing the power of documentaries, iREP seeks to raise awareness, deepen social and cultural education, and foster participatory democracy in societies.