Rwandan actor Gratien Niyitegeka, a renowned producer behind the viral YouTube comedy series "Papa Sava,” and Yannick Nshimirimana popularly known as Killaman are leading the way with the most nominations at the 2024 Mashariki African Film Festival (MAFF)’s Iziwacu awards.
The nominations released on Monday, October 21, left each of the two top actors nominated in three categories.
The awards are part of the 2024 Mashariki African Film Festival slated for November 2-9. The festival will take place at various venues including Century Cinema, Camp Kigali and Norrsken House Kigali.
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According to the list of nominees, Niyitegeka was nominated in the Best Film category for his ‘Papa Sava’ short drama series and Best Director category for the same movie. He, however, faces challenge from Killerman who is vying for prizes in both categories.
Ramadhan Benimana, alias Bamenya, was nominated in the Best Director category while prominent figures in the local cinema world like Dan Gaga (Ngenzi), Emmanuel Clapton Mugisha (Kibonge), James Mugisha and Jean Bosco ‘Ndimbati’ Uwihoreye are competing in the Best Actor category.
Iziwacu awards will also recognize female players in cinematography including Linda Keza, Mireille Igihozo Nshuti, Alphonsine, Clenia Dusenge popularly known as Madedeli, and many others competing in the category of Best Actress.
The awards will be handed over to outstanding filmmakers at the time the festival celebrates 10 years of existence since its inception in 2014.
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According to MAFF Executive Director Tressor Senga, a lot has been achieved in transforming Rwanda's film industry in the past 10 years since the festival's inception.
"We are happy that in 10 years we have expanded and every year we have added something to what we have set out to achieve. We are also proud of the contribution we have made to the film industry not only in Rwanda but also Africa,” Senga told The New Times.
Senga pointed out that, so far, Mashariki Film Festival has initiated a number of programs which have had a positive impact on the country's cinema.
He cited 'Tumenye Sinema' as a perfect example of the positive outcome of the project which empowered over 400 young filmmakers from different parts of the country, giving them the a platform to show what they can offer to the film industry.
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The awarding ceremony will also feature international categories including Best TV Series, Best Shot Film, Best Documentary, Signis Award and Best Feature Film. The nominations are also open to Rwandan filmmakers as long as they meet the required criteria to be nominated.