Two Rwandan films have been officially selected for the 2026 edition of L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma (Africa Makes Its Cinema), which will take place in Paris.

The selected films are What a Day, directed by Niyitegeka Gratien, and Ibyahishuwe (The Chapters), directed by Roger Niyoyita.

What a Day Continues Its Festival Run

Produced by Zacu Entertainment, What a Day is an 87-minute drama-thriller starring Niyitegeka Gratien. Iriniga Deny serves as writer and assistant director.

The film follows Motari Egide, a motorcycle taxi rider whose decision to steal a passenger’s bag sets off a series of troubling events.

What a Day was previously selected for the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF) in California. Its selection for L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma adds another international festival appearance to the film’s run.

Deny described the film’s recognition at international festivals as an honour for the people behind it and the audience that has supported it.

“To have What a Day recognized by international festivals like SVAFF and AFSC is an incredible honor. It proves that local stories have global power. I’m thrilled for our cast, crew, and audience, and can’t wait to see how international viewers connect with the film.”

Gratien also spoke about his reaction when the film was first selected for SVAFF, describing the news as an unexpected moment of happiness.

“When I first heard about the selection, I was surprised. It really became ‘What a Day’ for me.”

Now celebrating a second international selection, Gratien is happy about the continued good news surrounding the film and hopes its festival run will eventually bring an award.

Ibyahishuwe Also Selected

The second Rwandan film in the official selection is Ibyahishuwe (The Chapters), directed by Roger Niyoyita and produced by Zacu Entertainment in collaboration with Niyo Films & More.

The film follows a family whose relationships are unsettled after a hidden diary brings long-buried secrets to the surface. It explores love, betrayal, secrecy and the effects of the past on family relationships.

Ibyahishuwe has already received recognition in Rwanda. Following its broadcast on Zacu TV, the film won the Best IZIWACU Feature Film Award at the Mashariki Film Festival.

Director Roger said the Paris selection was a proud moment for the film and its story.

“I’m deeply honored to see Ibyahishuwe selected for L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma 2026 in Paris. It’s a proud moment to see our Rwandan story travel and connect with audiences beyond home.”

About L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma

Founded in Paris in 2019 by Blaise Pascal Tanguy, L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma is dedicated to promoting African and Afro-Caribbean cinema.

The festival brings together filmmakers, actors, critics and other cinema professionals through screenings, professional meetings, masterclasses, networking activities and award ceremonies. Its programme includes feature and short fiction, documentaries, television series and animation.

The 2026 edition will run from November 5 to 14 in Paris, with What a Day and Ibyahishuwe joining the festival’s official selection.