WELCOME TO THE FOURTH HELSINKI AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL – it is time again to skip the old stereotypes and mind-numbing news about Africa and get immersed in a continent that is pulsing with life, through the best of contemporary African cinema.

It has been very satisfying to see that HAFF has earned its place in Finland’s festival calendar and that there is a sizeable audience of people interested in what is really going on in Africa.

The theme for this year´s festival is Youth & power. What does it mean to be a young African? What challenges do young people face as they claim their place in society? What do they dream about, demand and love? Bursting with youthful energy and angst, HAFF gives unique viewpoints into life on the continent and in the African diaspora.

We are also showcasing films by the new generation of talented film-makers like Alain Gomis (Senegal), and Tosh Gitonga (Kenya), whose international success speaks volumes about the vitality and relevance of Africa’s filmmaking culture.

I would also like invite everyone to the HAFF street festival organised in Helsinki’s Kansalaistori on 8.5. as well as to screenings around Finland in cooperation with the regional film centres and other partners.

Enjoy the festival!

Wanjiku wa Ngugi, festival director