The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has launched a $1 billion initiative aimed at revitalising Africa’s film and creative sectors.
Unveiled in Kigali, Rwanda, under the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) platform, the Africa Film Fund will be managed by the bank’s investment subsidiary, the Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA).
The fund is designed to address long-standing challenges facing African filmmakers, including limited financing, underdeveloped post-production facilities, and restricted access to global distribution networks. The goal is to enable the production and international circulation of high-quality African film and television content, thereby boosting cultural exports and contributing to the continent’s creative economy.
Professor Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank and Chairman of FEDA, described the fund as a timely intervention aligned with the bank’s broader strategy for the creative sector.
“The creation of the Africa Film Fund will significantly accelerate the growth of Africa’s creative industry, which has shown great potential but continues to face obstacles in scaling and reaching global markets,” he said.
He added that the initiative represents more than financial support – it is a cultural commitment. “Through initiatives such as the CANEX Shorts Awards and targeted investments in film, Afreximbank is celebrating the diverse voices of Africa and unlocking the sector’s ability to drive economic progress across the continent.”
Marlene Ngoyi, CEO of FEDA, reiterated the fund’s long-term vision of nurturing a sustainable creative ecosystem.
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“This is not just about financing films. The Africa Film Fund seeks to empower Global Africa’s creative talent, encourage cultural exchange, and stimulate economic transformation. Our aim is to deliver tangible and enduring impact.”
Kanayo Awani, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President for Intra-African Trade and Export Development, highlighted the initiative’s role in promoting youth empowerment and regional integration.
The announcement has garnered international attention, with support from global film industry figures. Oscar-winning actress and JVL Media co-founder Viola Davis hailed the fund as “An invitation to the world to experience Africa through the eyes of its own creators—bold, authentic, and full of truth.”
Actor Boris Kodjoe, Managing Partner of FC Media Group, also praised the initiative, saying: “I am both excited and honoured to collaborate with Afreximbank and FEDA to support the development of quality content in Africa and beyond.”
With fresh investment and global interest, Africa’s creative industries may now receive the recognition and resources they have long awaited.
