Road to African AI International Film Festival 2026: Nnyema's journey in amplifying African stories through AI

 

Nnyema Benson Ekon

The African AI International Film Festival (AAIIFF) 2026, scheduled to take place on January 2–3, 2026, aims to redefine African storytelling by combining creativity, culture, and artificial intelligence. As the first festival of its kind on African soil with a global perspective, AAIIFF is dedicated to providing African filmmakers and storytellers with a platform to experiment, innovate, and share their stories with the world, free from the traditional limitations of budget, equipment, or location.

Nnyema Benson Ekon, a media professional, cultural advocate, and empowerment enthusiast, shared her thoughts on her work in amplifying African stories, especially in the diaspora, and on AI-driven storytelling.

On her journey to amplify African stories
Nnyema shared how she noticed the African narrative being filtered through a European lens. “For years, the African media sphere has been filled with stories told from the European perspective of what African looks like,” she said. “I’ve had foreigners ask if we had water in Nigeria or if there was food—these myopic questions baffle me. I’ve made it my responsibility to tell Nigerian stories drawn from my own lived experiences, using AI and writing.”

On the role of African stories in the era of AI
As an author and talk show host, storytelling is central to Nnyema’s work. She sees this moment as transformative: “This is a great time to be a storyteller. Now, without waiting for a big movie producer to say ‘wow, I love your book,’ I can comfortably make a movie of my book at home.”

On the intersection of AI and African storytelling
When asked about AAIIFF and AI-driven storytelling, Nnyema highlighted visibility: “That’s the most exciting part. The world will get to see our stories from our experiences.” She believes platforms like AAIIFF are crucial for presenting African culture in its full glory and ensuring authentic narratives reach global audiences.

On social impact and empowerment in creative platforms
Drawing from her work with initiatives like MEEI and UDO Foundation, Nnyema emphasised the importance of community and support for creators: “Very important. Creators need support like a strong community where they can grow, be encouraged, and access opportunities.”

Advice for emerging African creators experimenting with AI
Her message to new creators is simple and empowering: “Just do it. Just create it. It doesn’t have to be perfect. No one becomes a pro by just imagining; put that imagination into reality.”

Omote Ro Dhe is proud to be a media partner for AAIIFF, documenting and amplifying these conversations, and helping audiences engage with Africa’s emerging talent. By sharing stories like Nnyema’s, the festival and media partners collectively contribute to building a vibrant ecosystem where African creativity thrives, and global audiences gain a fresh perspective on the continent’s narratives.