The NBO Film Festival, Kenya’s premier celebration of cinematic excellence, successfully kicked off on the night of October 17, 2024, with the premiere screening of the highly anticipated, award-winning film ‘The Battle for Laikipia.’ Directed by Peter Murumi, an acclaimed Kenyan filmmaker, and Daphne Matziaraki, an Oscar-nominated Greek director, the film drew applause from an audience that included the cast and crew, industry stakeholders, actors, celebrities, and film enthusiasts at Prestige Cinema.
The festival, running for 10 days, offers a diverse lineup of films and venues, bringing the magic of cinema to multiple iconic locations across Nairobi. From its original home at Prestige Cinema to Kaloleni Social Hall in Eastlands, Docubox at Shalom House, and Unseen Cinema in Kilimani, the event has expanded to embrace new audiences and cinematic experiences. This year, the festival showcases 17 new feature-length films, 22 short films, and two Kenyan premieres of award-winning films—making it one of the most exciting cultural events of the year.
Speaking at the festival’s opening, event organizers expressed excitement over the growing recognition of Kenyan cinema on the global stage. The inclusion of films like ‘The Battle for Laikipia’ reflects the commitment to spotlighting African stories with universal appeal.
This year’s NBO Film Festival features a carefully curated selection of films that explore themes ranging from historical narratives and social justice to personal stories of triumph and resilience. One of the highly anticipated highlights is the closing film, titled ‘Our Land, Our Freedom,’ premiering on October 27, 2024. Directed by renowned Kenyan filmmakers Meena Nanji and Zippy Kimundu, this documentary explores Kenya’s colonial past through the untold stories of freedom fighters and their families. It follows the journey of Mukami and Wanjugu Kimathi, the widow and daughter of Dedan Kimathi, one of Kenya’s most iconic freedom fighters.
With a lineup that includes Kenyan and international films, this year’s festival promises to be a celebration of African cinema, offering a rich blend of storytelling, artistic innovation, and cultural reflection. The festival’s organizers have ensured there is something for every cinephile—from local film enthusiasts to international visitors eager to explore Africa’s burgeoning film scene.
Beyond just screening films, the NBO Film Festival 2024 also emphasizes the importance of community and creativity. Venues such as the Kaloleni Social Hall and Docubox will host discussions, workshops, and panels that focus on the evolving film industry in Kenya and Africa. These sessions offer a unique opportunity for filmmakers, producers, and digital creators to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas on how to further enrich African cinema.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the festival’s offerings, the full schedule can be accessed via www.nbofilmfestival.com, providing details on showtimes, venues, and film synopses.
Whether you’re a casual filmgoer or a devoted cinephile, the NBO Film Festival 2024 offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the very best of Kenyan and African cinema. From inspiring documentaries to innovative feature films, this 10-day event is set to captivate and inspire audiences from all walks of life.
