New African Film Distributor Screen Connect Launches to Bridge Gaps in Pan-African Film Distribution

A new Pan-African film distribution platform, Screen Connect, has officially launched operations, introducing a collaborative approach to getting African stories in front of African audiences. The initiative is driven by the urgent need to improve access to culturally resonant films across the continent, a gap that has long challenged filmmakers and audiences alike.

Founded by Cassandra Onwualu (Nigeria), Marete Selvin (Kenya), and Mizero Kabano Yannick (Rwanda), Screen Connect is a product of Some Fine Day Pix and GIZ’s Moving Pictures program. At its core, the platform champions cross-border collaboration, supporting local filmmakers and cinema exhibitors while representing a cross-continental collaboration aimed at building a sustainable framework for African cinema circulation.

The platform’s official launch was marked by the June 2025 screenings of the Nigerian psychological thriller Over the Bridge in Kenya and Rwanda. The film screened at Century Cinemax Junction, Garden City, and Two Rivers—all in Kenya—and Ciné Mayaka by Imitana in Rwanda. The film’s release followed clearance from each country’s Censorship and Viewership Board. “You submit your film to the board, and they decide if it’s ‘fit’ for exhibition. If your film passes QC, then it can be released,” explained Co-founder Onwualu, a Nigerian producer and CEO of Ojiugo Arena.

Directed by Tolu Ajayi and featuring a cast that includes Ozzy Agu, Segilola Ogidan, Joke Silva, Deyemi Okanlawon, Chimezie Imo, and Paul Adam, Over the Bridge tells the story of Folarin, a high-powered investment banker whose world collapses in the wake of a failed government project. The film, which explores themes of power, identity, and personal unravelling, earned 12 nominations at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, winning Best Cinematography and Best Production Design.

Over the Bridge had its world premiere in the UK in October 2023 through the Beyond Nollywood platform, screening in 10 theatres across six cities. In November of the same year, it screened at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). More of its appearances during its festival run include the 2024 New African Film Festival held in Washington and a slot as the opening film at the 31st edition of the New York African Film Festival. 

While the commercial release of Over the Bridge on the continent served as Screen Connect’s launchpad, the team has confirmed that more titles—both Nigerian and from the wider African continent—are lined up for future release. “But, as it is with theatrical distribution, the cinemas have the final say,” Onwualu shared

Expansion is also a key part of Screen Connect’s long-term vision. “Absolutely! It’s a Pan-African initiative,” Onwualu noted. “It’s more of a marathon than a sprint, but we definitely will be expanding into additional African territories.”

By tackling the long-standing disconnect between African filmmakers and audiences across borders, Screen Connect is not only filling a logistical gap but also building a future where African cinema is more accessible on the continent.

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