Matatu Film Stage is a travelling pan-African film festival that began in Uganda. Inspired by the matatu minibuses that move people, stories, and ideas across East African cities, the festival carries African cinema into different spaces and communities. It creates places where bold films from African and diaspora filmmakers can be watched, discussed, and experienced together.

The London Edition presents two evenings of curated short film screenings and conversations. The programme connects African filmmakers, diaspora audiences, and film lovers, creating a space where African stories meet new audiences and spark dialogue across cultures. The festival opens with a panel discussion titled Bridges, Borders, and Gatekeepers: African Cinema in the International System, exploring how African films travel internationally and the systems that shape their visibility.

Day 1 Film Programme – (98 min)
• In Three Layers of Darkness – Dir. Houcem Slouli (Tunisia)
• A Rhythm Unsung – Dir. Seun Richards (Nigeria/USA)
• The Last Shoemaker – Dir. Ali Musoke (Uganda)
• Resurgence of Lubugo – Dir. Hannah Allchurch (UK/Uganda)
• Anticipation – Dir. Byoma Mariah (Uganda)
• I Eat What I Like – Dir. Shari Mwanika (Uganda)
• Mahammoud’s Mercedes – Dir. Ben Eager (Sweden)

Followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.

Supported by the British Council Culture Connect programme and presented by Film Possible in partnership with Royal African Society, Rich Mix, Laba Cinema, MeshWorks, and Stone Age Pictures.


Matutu Film Stage Website / Matutu Film Stage Instagram

If you have any access requirements, please contact our box office team on 020 7613 7498 or email