…As it premieres documentary on legendary festival
BY JUDE OSSAI / ENUGU
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Enugu was agog at the weekend as Afrochives Studio brought the rich history and vibrant celebration of the Nkwa Festival to life with the public screening of its documentary, “Nkwa Festival” to the Coal City.
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It was a celebration of a “Man who became a God,” on July 13 at the Digital Dreams Hub in Ogui Road, Enugu.
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The event drew a captivated audience, including historians, researchers, students, and culture enthusiasts, eager to delve into the unique traditions of the Nsude community.
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The documentary has garnered significant acclaim, having been officially selected and featured at the 2024 Rayany Creators Film Festival and the Lift Off Global Network Film Festival.
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Additionally, it has been licensed by AfiaTv, the foremost regional TV station in southeastern Nigeria, and will be broadcast on DSTV and GOTV on channels 254 and 17 respectively. This recognition underscores the documentary’s impactful storytelling and its cultural significance.
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Afrochives Studio, based in Enugu, is a media and content studio dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of people of African origin and descent. Led by Adachukwu Onwudiwe as Team Lead and Writer, the studio has a proven track record of creating powerful visuals that illuminate Igbo culture. Their work can be explored on their YouTube page.
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The Afrochives team, composed of Creative Director, Toochi Gabriel, and DOP/Cinematographers, Young Charles Chimezirim and Sam-Eze Chidera, brought a wealth of talent and expertise to every project.
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Ajuluchukwu Edechiene, a communication for development (C4D) expert, was a co-producer with Afrochives on this project. He is a native of the project location and long desires to share this story. Afrochives has other ongoing projects with him; including the Coal Miners Legacy documentary, just to mention a few. We look forward to doing more with him.
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Speaking to journalists shortly after the event, Toochi Gabriel explained that the Nkwa Festival, a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in the history of the Nsude community in southeastern Nigeria, had been a significant cultural event for centuries.
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“Four centuries ago, the Nsude community honored a man named Uto, elevating him to the status of a god. Uto, a renowned warrior from Ugwuto village, was celebrated for his combat skills and protection of the community. Following his untimely death and dishonorable burial, the community faced misfortunes believed to be caused by Uto’s anger. To honor his legacy, the Oshie clan and the Nsude community established the Nkwa Festival, which has evolved into a biennial celebration.”, he said.
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Gabriel further said, “Afrochives Studio is currently working on a feature film titled: “The Calling” and a short film “The Gift,” continuing its mission to produce Afrocentric narratives that resonate with global audiences.
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“For more information and to view Afrochives Studio’s work, visit our YouTube page. Contact: Afrochives Studio
This reporter observed that the screening at Digital Dreams Hub was a resounding success, drawing a diverse audience eager to learn about the rich cultural history of the Nsude community.
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The event provided a platform for engaging discussions and reflections on the importance of preserving cultural heritage through visual storytelling.
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