And as the sun set on another remarkable day at Kitale Film Week, we were reminded that cinema isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about legacy, learning, and lifting each other up Day Three of Kitale Film Week burst into life with a range of African storytelling, from timeless classics to contemporary gems, delving into the continent’s immense potential. Everything, from belly laughs to tear-jerking moments that had us reaching for tissue. Screenings The day featured a line-up of remarkable films, each highlighting unique narratives and cultural significance some of which included:
- Mata Hari – Directed by Calvin Mandaga, this compelling Kenyan production recently claimed victory in the 48-hour Film Project. This achievement has earned the film the honour of representing Kenya at Filmapalooza in Seattle, Washington DC, in March 2025, marking another milestone for Kenya’s rapidly-rising film industry.
- The Day I Will Never Forget – Directed by Viboks Omondi, this film was a hilarious and relatable story starring Samson Omondi (Sam Alcorns). This delightful comedy follows a young conservative’s adventures through his first date and the amusing aftermath, capturing the awkward charm of new relationships.
- The Little Girl Who Stole the Sun – (Djibril Diop Mambéty,) A moving Senegalese classic that follows Sili Laam, a young disabled girl who defied societal expectations by selling newspapers and inspiring other people with disabilities to rise up. It brought forth powerful themes of resilience and determination.
School Screenings
As part of the festival’s commitment to nurturing young minds, Form 4 students from Matisi High School, through Docubox, were exposed to the world of cinema through curated screenings. They watched two films- a documentary (My Land My Freedom) and a short film (Float)-that sparked insightful discussions.
During the Q&A session, Mr Mbuti from Docubox posed a thought-provoking question to the young audience.
Is there anything from Matisi that you want the world to know?”
His question highlighted film’s unique power as a medium of expression, encouraging students to see themselves not just as consumers of stories, but potential storytellers of their own community’s narratives. 
Tributes
The third day of the festival drew to a close with hearts full and eyes glistening as we honoured the luminaries we’ve lost. A special tribute celebrated Claire and her sister Frankie, the masterful editor whose deft touch at Africa Post Office transformed countless hours of raw footage into pure cinematic poetry. Frankie’s passing left an unmistakable void in African cinema, but her artistic fingerprints remain, waiting to be visible in every perfectly-timed cut, in every seamless transition that will make our stories flow.
Frankie’s legacy lives on not just in the films she crafted, but in the countless filmmakers and especially editors she inspired and mentored along the way. Her cutting rooms may be quiet now, but the rhythm of her powerful edits continues to dance through our screens. Rest in peace. Your artistic vision continues to illuminate our path forward.
And as the sun set on another remarkable day at Kitale Film Week, we were reminded that cinema isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about legacy, learning, and lifting each other up. From seasoned editors like Frankie who co- wrote our stories, to the bright young minds at Matisi High School dreaming up their own tales, this festival continues to weave together past, present, and future of African cinema.
The diverse line-up of films showcased – from Mata Hari’s triumph to The Little Girl Who Stole the Sun’s timeless message – proves that our stories deserve to be told, preserved, and celebrated. Whether you’re a filmmaker, student, or simply someone who believes in the power of storytelling.
Don’t miss the remaining days of this cinematic celebration. Join us as we continue to discover, debate, and dream together. The screens are lit, the seats are waiting, and somewhere in Kitale, the next great African story is taking shape.
For screening schedules and more information about upcoming films, visit the Kitale Film Week social media pages. Your next favorited film might just be tomorrow’s first screening.
See you at the festivals!
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