Kumba: A Celebration of African Short Films

Kumba: A Celebration of African Short Films

Mar 28, 2025 | News

Exploring Identity, Culture, and Home through Cinema

We’re excited to partner with Maona Art to bring you Kumba, a dynamic short film programme that celebrates the richness of African cinema. Curated by Tatenda Jamera of Maona Art, this programme brings African and Diaspora communities together through powerful, authentic storytelling.

Kumba is about experiencing stories that reflect the vibrancy of African culture, identity, and heritage. From Senegal to Nigeria, Ethiopia to Egypt, the films in this programme offer a unique perspective on the diverse experiences that shape the African continent.

Beutset (Senegal, 2024, Dir. Alicia Mendy)
Alioune’s journey through madness and clarity unfolds against a backdrop of a waterborne crisis in Dakar.

The Incredible Sensational Fiancée of Sèyí Àjàyí (Nigeria, 2024, Dir. Abbesi Akhamie)
A witty, dramatic story of love, betrayal, and revenge in the Pan-African society of Alkebulan.

Alazar (Ethiopia, 2024, Dir. Beza Hailu Lemma)
A deeply affecting drama about a mysterious disappearance that shakes a farming community to its core.

Bahr (Egypt, 2024, Dir. Belal Abusamra)
A father’s grief leads him on a journey to reconnect with his late wife in this poignant meditation on death and faith.

Our monthly African cinema screenings, in collaboration with Maona Art, offer audiences the chance to discover the diverse voices and stories of Africa. Kumba highlights the work of some of the most exciting emerging filmmakers in African cinema today, showcasing a range of powerful short films. Whether you’re new to African cinema or a seasoned fan, we’re confident this programme has something for everyone.

📅 Tuesday 29th April, 6.30pm
🎟 Click here to book tickets

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Plan your visit

Our beautiful art deco inspired auditorium can be found just off East Oxford's Cowley Road. We are open 7 days a week. We open the cinema and box office 30 minutes before the scheduled start time of each film, and the Box Office then closes 10 minutes after the film starts. We don’t show adverts, just a couple of trailers, so don't be late as the film itself starts very close to the advertised time!