Zanzibar, Tanzania – East Africa’s premier cinematic and cultural celebration, the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)—also known as the “Festival of the Dhow Countries”—is scheduled to run from 25 to 29 June 2025. The 28th edition promises a vibrant mix of film screenings, music performances, cultural showcases, workshops, dhow races, and community events.
Regional Focus: Highlights cinema from Africa, the Middle East, and Indian Ocean nations.
Oscar-Qualifying: Offers high-profile exposure and competitive categories like Best Feature, Best Documentary, and Best East African Film.
Cultural Immersion: Includes Village Panorama, Women Panorama, children’s programs, and live performances on Stone Town’s iconic stages.
Industry & Community: Features master classes, panel discussions, and local outreach through the ZIFF Foundation.
This year’s festival will open with the Ugandan biopic Janani: The Last Stand, celebrating local resilience. Over 430 films were submitted, including 174 from East Africa, underscoring the festival’s role as a vital incubator for regional filmmakers.
