Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The sixth edition of the African Women Arts and Film Festival (AWAFFEST) is set to take place from April 24 to 25 at the Ebunjan Theatre in The Gambia, marking the first time the festival will be held in West Africa.

This announcement was made during the week by Ichie Kelechi Eke, CEO of Rootflix and founder of AWAFEST, a platform that celebrates the artistic excellence and storytelling of African women in film and the arts.

This year’s festival will shine a spotlight on Gambian cultural icon Mrs. Janet Badjan-Young, who will be honored with the prestigious Legend Award. Badjan-Young, a trailblazer in African arts and theater, is being recognized for her lifelong dedication to cultural preservation and her transformative impact on the performing arts scene across the continent.

Her founding of the Ebunjan Theatre, one of Gambia’s premier cultural institutions, has become a symbol of creative resilience and a beacon for nurturing artistic talent. The award ceremony, one of the key highlights of this year’s festival, will celebrate her legacy and contributions that span decades.

The 2025 edition of AWAFEST promises an engaging program, featuring 16 selected films from across Africa and the diaspora. These films delve into poignant themes such as resilience, hope, and transformation, showcasing the diverse narratives and artistic expressions of African women filmmakers.

Notable titles include “Widow’s Gift,” “Beware,” “R.E.S.C.U.E.,” and “The Girl From The Village: A Story of Hope.” These films will also be made available on Rootflix, a streaming platform dedicated to multicultural and underrepresented voices in cinema.

In addition to screenings, the festival will host a specialized film workshop aimed at empowering young women aspiring to careers in filmmaking. The initiative underscores AWAFEST’s commitment to nurturing new talent and promoting gender equity in the creative industries.

Originally launched in East Africa, AWAFEST has previously been held in Tanzania and Zambia before making its way to The Gambia. Its expansion into West Africa signifies the festival’s growing influence as a pan-African cultural movement.

AWAFEST also serves as a sister festival to The African Film Festival (TAFF) in Dallas, Texas, further solidifying its role in connecting African creatives with global audiences.

Organizers and participants alike are optimistic that this year’s event will deepen cultural appreciation, amplify the voices of African women in the arts, and inspire a new generation of storytellers across the continent.