THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
The 22nd Afrika Film Festival Köln opened on Thursday, 18 September, to a wave of excitement, reaffirming its status as Europe’s leading platform for African cinema. The festival began with the critically acclaimed Kenyan documentary How to Build a Library by Maia Lekow and Christopher King, a moving exploration of how communities in Africa preserve knowledge and culture through education.
Running until 28 September, the festival has once again transformed Cologne into a vibrant hub of powerful storytelling, innovative artistry and cross-continental dialogue.
Screenings are taking place at venues such as Filmforum NRW and Alte Feuerwache, with tickets starting at just €7 (reduced €5). With more than 65 films, Q&A sessions with directors, youth programming and city-wide events, the festival offers something for everyone.
Under the motto “Afrikas Kino lebt – und Köln bleibt seine Bühne” (African cinema lives – and Cologne remains its stage), the festival continues its legacy as Europe’s foremost showcase of African and diaspora creativity. Now in its 22nd year, the AFFK presents an impressive line-up of feature films, documentaries and shorts from over 20 African countries.
Despite long-standing funding challenges, the organisers remain committed to delivering a compelling programme that amplifies African voices and fosters meaningful cultural exchange.
More than a film showcase, the Afrika Film Festival Köln has built a reputation as a space for learning and dialogue. This year’s programme includes panel discussions, workshops, school screenings and interactive city tours designed to broaden perspectives and deepen understanding.
A special highlight is the upcoming AFRICA XCHANGE SUMMIT, which will bring together professionals from Africa and Europe in film, technology, gaming and finance. Though officially launching in October, the initiative is being introduced at the festival to emphasise its role as a bridge between continents.
Afrika Film Festival Köln is where cultures meet, ideas flourish and audiences are inspired by Africa’s resilience and creative power. Since its founding in 1992, the festival has screened nearly 1,000 films from 40 African countries and welcomed more than 200 filmmakers to Cologne.
For the full programme and ticket information, visit afrikafilmfestivalkoeln.de.
Vivian Asamoah
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