The 2024 NBO Film Festival, Nairobi’s premier celebration of cinema, is set to take place from October 17th to October 27th.
This event will return to its original venue at the Prestige Cinema, Ngong Road, while also expanding to additional screening locations like the Kaloleni Social Hall and Unseen Nairobi, a new hub for independent films.
Festival co-founder Sheba Hirst said: “After a long hiatus, we’re excited to bring the NBO Film Festival back to a city and region that urgently needs storytelling that moves us—stories that speak to our deepest emotions, connect us to our shared humanity, and reveal essential truths.
“In this time of reflection, we’ve come to understand that our most critical role is to safeguard the spaces where art, creativity, and critical inquiry can thrive.
“In a world where these spaces are increasingly under threat, it’s more important than ever to protect and celebrate the power of art to question, challenge, and inspire.”
Attendees can expect a diverse selection of screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, insightful panels, and curated events celebrating both local and regional talent.
The festival showcases a wide array of films from Kenya, Africa, and the African diaspora, including fiction, documentaries, shorts, and animated films.
With a mission to promote Kenyan storytelling and inspire a deeper appreciation for African art and culture, the NBO Film Fest has become a key platform for both established and emerging filmmakers.
It has a rich history of hosting world premieres of acclaimed Kenyan films like Supa Modo and Lusala, which have garnered international attention.
For those looking to participate, tickets are available for purchase.
The festival also hosts industry workshops, making it a great opportunity for filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts to engage with professionals in the field.
This year’s event will also close with the return of ‘Shorts, Shorts and Shots’, an audience-favourite created and presented by DocuBox at their venue in Shalom House on Ngong Road.
This hybrid beach-party film screening invites attendees to don their favorite shorts, enjoy shots, and immerse themselves in short films exploring the theme of African Futures.
Additionally, the Creators Brunch will provide a supportive space for young and emerging female creators, offering mentorship and connection opportunities with established female creators and leaders in the creative industry.