5 Must-Watch African Documentaries of 2023

As we move into 2023, there are some fantastic African documentaries that have already been released or are set to be released this year.

These documentaries are not only informative and insightful, but they also offer a unique perspective on various aspects of African culture, history, and society. Here are five must-watch African documentaries of 2023: 

African Queens: Njinga (2023) 

"African Queens: Njinga" is a documentary film directed by Angolan filmmaker, Zézé Gamboa. The film, which is narrated by Jada Pinkett Smith, tells the story of Queen Njinga, a 17th-century warrior queen who fought against Portuguese colonizers in what is now Angola. Through expert interviews and dramatic reenactments, the documentary explores Njinga's life, her military tactics, and her efforts to resist European colonialism. The film sheds light on the history of Africa's struggle against colonialism and the role of powerful women in that struggle.

The Letter (2019)

"The Letter'' is a 2019 documentary film directed by Maia Lekow and Christopher King. The film is set in the coastal town of Taita Taveta in Kenya and tells the story of Karisa, a small-scale farmer who is in a legal battle with a British landowner, who claims to own the land that Karisa and his family have lived on for generations. The film explores themes of land ownership, colonialism, and the challenges faced by rural communities in Kenya. Through Karisa's personal story, the film sheds light on the broader issue of land rights in Kenya and the ongoing struggle of rural communities to secure their land against powerful interests. The film received critical acclaim and was awarded Best Documentary at the 2019 Africa Movie Academy Awards.

Africa Blood and Guts (1966)

"Africa Blood and Guts" is a 1970 documentary film by Italian director Gualtiero Jacopetti. The film depicts various aspects of African life, including the natural beauty of the continent, traditional tribal cultures, and the violence and poverty that has plagued many African nations. It includes footage of animal hunts, tribal rituals, and interviews with African leaders, as well as scenes of war, famine, and disease. The film has been criticized for its graphic portrayal of violence and its exploitation of African people for entertainment. Despite this, it remains a controversial and influential documentary that has been credited with popularizing the "Mondo" film genre, which focuses on sensational and often graphic depictions of exotic cultures and extreme behavior. 

500 Years Later (2005)

500 Years Later" is a 2005 documentary film directed by Owen Alik Shahadah. The film examines the legacy of slavery and colonialism in Africa and its impact on the continent's development and progress. Through interviews with scholars, activists, and ordinary people, the film explores how the history of African enslavement and colonization has contributed to contemporary issues such as poverty, underdevelopment, and political instability. The film argues that the problems faced by Africa today cannot be understood without examining its history and the ongoing impact of European colonialism. The film also highlights the resilience and strength of African people and the importance of reclaiming their cultural heritage and identity. "500 Years Later" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about race, power, and history in the modern world. 

The Ivory Game (2016)

"The Ivory Game" is a gripping documentary that exposes the illegal ivory trade in Africa. The film follows the efforts of conservationists and law enforcement officials as they work to crack down on poaching and trafficking of ivory. The documentary offers a harrowing look at the devastation caused by the ivory trade and the challenges faced by those working to protect Africa's wildlife. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, these five African documentaries offer a compelling and diverse range of perspectives on various issues affecting the continent. Whether it's exploring ancient rock art, the struggles of Africans, the illegal ivory trade, the politics of hair, or the effects of climate change, these documentaries offer insight, education, and inspiration. So, be sure to add them to your watch list in 2023!