Thursday 8th May 2025
By inAfrika Reporter
Calling all young filmmakers Africa’s biggest short film competition is back! The Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), an initiative by Afreximbank, has announced the third edition of CANEX Shorts, giving young African creatives a shot at global recognition and a $2,000 prize in three categories: Best Fiction, Best Documentary, and Best Animation.
Open to filmmakers aged 18 to 35 from Africa, the diaspora, and the Caribbean, the contest invites submissions no longer than five minutes through FilmFreeway. Entries must have been produced in 2023 or later.
Winners will be announced during CANEX at IATF2025, held from September 4–10 in Algiers, Algeria. In addition to cash prizes, winners will have their films screened at the continent’s largest creative gathering an opportunity to connect with industry investors and potential partners.
The competition is about more than awards. “By investing in our creatives, we’re actively ensuring Africa’s vibrant culture and talents gain global recognition,” said Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President at Afreximbank.
Last year’s winners included Silent Screams (Fiction, Botswana), We Shall Not Forget (Documentary, Kenya), and Room-5 (Animation, Ghana), with special mentions for two standout entries.
This year, CANEX Shorts continues to highlight the untapped potential in Africa’s $5 billion film industry. It’s not just about movies it’s about telling Africa’s story to the world.
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