Zanzibar International Film Festival : East Africa’s cultural jewel
From July 4 to 13, 2025, Stone Town on Zanzibar turns into a vibrant hub of cinema and culture with the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF). Screenings, music, workshops, and open-air performances highlight Africa and its neighbours in a joyful, inclusive atmosphere.
ZIFF, first held in 1997, is now one of East Africa’s largest cultural gatherings, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually.
Over ten days, the 28th edition offers:
- 100+ local and international films, including Golden and Silver Dhow competitions, outdoor screenings at the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens, youth programs, and village panoramas
- Workshops, masterclasses & panels on documentary, digital distribution, and more, featuring global industry experts
- Music concerts, art exhibitions, dhow races, and beach soccer, turning the festival into a cultural carnival
- Community outreach, with screenings in villages and specialized sessions for women and children addressing health and human rights
The 2025 theme, “Where Hope Takes Root”, reflects the festival’s commitment to resilience through art. It opens with the Ugandan biopic Janani: The Last Stand, chronicling Archbishop Janani Luwum; Ugandan filmmakers also won key acting awards.
ZIFF is also an economic stimulant: it draws tourists, supports local businesses, and fosters job creation — reinforcing Zanzibar’s image as a cultural and creative hub.
A cultural melting pot
ZIFF offers a cultural melting pot: perfect for cinema fans, music lovers, art connoisseurs, and debate enthusiasts. It also provides networking opportunities for professionals and places local communities at its heart. ZIFF proves that cinema drives development, supported by partners like the European Union and UNICEF. It highlights Africa’s capacity to host world-class arts events, aligned with AfCFTA goals and regional integration.
