The Africa Narrative Change Film Award, a new initiative launched by Africa No Filter in partnership with the Cairo International Film Festival, has been awarded to Dahomey, a documentary exploring the return of 26 royal treasures from the Kingdom of Dahomey to their homeland in modern-day Benin. This film examines the historical context of these artifacts’ removal and the larger conversation around the restitution of African heritage from Western museums.
The Africa Narrative Change Film Award aims to support African films that promote positive and progressive narratives about the continent. By focusing on stories that celebrate Africa’s innovation, growth, and potential, the award seeks to encourage filmmakers who contribute to reshaping the global perception of Africa. It also includes a monetary prize to further bolster the work of these filmmakers.
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Set against the backdrop of growing calls for the return of African cultural treasures, Dahomey addresses critical issues such as cultural appropriation, restitution, and self-determination. The film highlights the importance of reclaiming Africa’s history and heritage, positioning these topics at the heart of an ongoing global debate about the legacy of colonialism.
Mati Diop, the director of Dahomey, expressed her gratitude for receiving the award, emphasizing its personal significance as an Afro-descendant filmmaker. Diop framed the recognition as an opportunity for cinema to correct historical injustices, asserting that film can empower communities to reclaim their narrative and reshape their identity on their own terms.
Dahomey has already garnered critical acclaim, winning the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival and being selected as Senegal’s entry for the 2025 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category.