The first annual Kigali Audiovisual Forum concluded on a high note today at the Kigali Convention Center.

The first of its kind in the region, the three-day Kigali Audiovisual Forum brought together over 300 delegates from 20 countries across the world in order to discuss the trends in the sector, map out future business opportunities in the industry and provide networking opportunities for audiovisual professionals from across the globe.

The Forum focused on Africa’s ability to use technology in storytelling, the development and professionalization of audio-visual structures and industries as well as the development of professional skills in production and distribution.

Furthermore, discussions expounded on producing exportable, authentic African content and helping budding continental producers to initiate co-financing, cross-border content production of projects.

In addition, delegates enjoyed workshops on pitching for project ideas as well as deliberate on the development of public financing mechanisms for the film and media sector.

“Rwanda recognizes the Audio-Visual sector as one of the high potential sectors of all creative industries and promising niche market for tourism and culture development. We consider it as one of the key components for economic development and poverty reduction mostly through job creation. This is why efforts such as this forum are being made so that we can all address the current challenges and find solutions, together,” said Clare Akamanzi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board.

The Kigali Audio Visual Forum was organized by a range of partners including the Rwanda Development Board, the Rwanda Convention Bureau, GIZ, European Union, The European Film Festival, French Embassy to Rwanda, CISAC, the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI), Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Pavillon Afriques and Rwanda’s national flag carrier, RwandAir.

“The German Corporation is happy with the outcomes of the past three-day event and we will continue to partner with the Rwanda Development Board to organize another Kigali Audio Visual Forum next year,” said Bodo Immink, Country Director GIZ Rwanda.

To view and download photos of the first Kigali Audio Visual Forum go to: