Rwanda’s celebrated actress, Shanel, has scooped the Best Actress award of the year at the Kenya International Film Festival (KIFF), for her lead role in the film ‘The Day God walked Away.”

The ceremony was held at the Alliance Francaise de Nairobi, on October 30, and attracted various local and international filmmakers.

Directed by Belgian cinematographer, Philippe van Leeuw, the film is based on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

‘The Day God Walked Away’ was also voted the ‘Best Film’ and ‘Best Producer’. Speaking to The New Times, the overwhelmed actress said it was an honour to be voted the ‘Best Actress’.

"I’m excited about the award, and I will use it to market my film skills,” Shanel said.

The KIFF award marks Shanel’s third prize on the same film.
Meanwhile, the 26-year-old actress said it’s not over yet, as she claims to be into another project which will soon see her behind cameras.

The down-to-earth multitalented star has also vowed to give her music fans with the best hits to be out soon.
The Kenya International Film Festival (KIFF) aims to promote  Kenyan film industry by giving local and regional film makers a platform to premier their films to a wide audience;  and to give them the opportunity to improve their skills through capacity building workshops.
KIFF also transcends regional borders by receiving international films to premier, and also to compete with those from the region.

In addition KIFF invites acclaimed film makers to film festivals to conduct workshops and share experiences with local film makers.

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