RomAfrica Film Festival

The African Film Festival in Rome

The RomAfrica Film Festival (RAFF) is the capital's leading event dedicated to cinema from the African continent and Afro-descendant communities. Established in 2015, the festival has grown with each edition to become a landmark appointment for those looking to discover an Africa that narrates itself, moving beyond clichés and stereotypes. The event takes place in the heart of the Municipality of Rome, in the Lazio region, with all screenings free of charge and presented in their original language with Italian subtitles.

The Twelfth Edition (2026)

From July 16 to 18, 2026, RAFF presented its twelfth edition, featuring 15 selected works—5 feature films, 5 documentaries, and 5 short films—totaling approximately 15 hours of African cinema. The festival is artistically directed by Antonio Flamini, with Cleophas Adrien Dioma serving as president. The core mission remains unchanged: to give a voice to African directors and diaspora talents, with a special focus on second generations and migration themes.

Venues: The Egyptian Academy and Casa del Cinema

The opening night was held at the Egyptian Academy (Via Omero 4), a historic cultural institute overlooking the gardens of Villa Borghese, while the heart of the festival remains the Casa del Cinema in Villa Borghese, with screenings distributed between the Sala Fellini and the evocative outdoor Ettore Scola arena for evening events. These two iconic locations, just steps from the historic center, offer spectators an experience blending the big screen, meetings with authors, and convivial moments.

A Bridge Between Africa and Italy

More than just a showcase, the RomAfrica Film Festival acts as a cultural bridge between Italy and African nations. The festival is supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism, the Lazio Region, and the City of Rome, alongside collaborations with numerous African embassies and film institutions such as Cinecittà and the Experimental Centre of Cinematography. Each edition features meetings, exhibitions, and tastings: from the karkadé cocktail at the Egyptian evening to South African wine tastings for Mandela Day.

Why it's worth it

For cinema enthusiasts and those seeking a unique Roman summer, RAFF is a precious opportunity: a high-quality, free program that brings to Rome works often awarded at major international festivals, from Venice to Zanzibar. It is a way to travel through Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and South Africa while sitting comfortably in Villa Borghese.