Afropop Worldwide is partnering once again with the New York African Film Festival, now in its 32nd year, to co-present two standout films that explore rich cultural narratives from Ghana and Guinea-Bissau. The collaboration highlights Afropop’s ongoing mission to amplify African voices through film, music, and storytelling.

The first of the two featured films is “The Fisherman”, a 2024 Ghanaian production directed by Zoey Martinson, making its New York premiere at the festival. The film tells the story of Atta Oko, a traditional fisherman who, upon being forced into retirement, embarks on an unusual journey with a modern, talking fish and a group of eccentric companions. As they navigate the lively streets of Accra in pursuit of a shared dream to own a boat, the film blends humor and magical realism with a heartfelt message about family, tradition, and perseverance.

A Q&A session with director Zoey Martinson will follow the screening, offering audiences a deeper look into the film’s creative process and cultural themes.

Afropop is also co-presenting “Nteregu”, a North American premiere directed by Manuel Loureiro and Roger Mor. The 83-minute documentary traces the history and evolution of Guinea-Bissau’s music, from traditional Tina drumming in village squares to contemporary DJ scenes in Europe. The film underscores music’s role as a vessel for intergenerational knowledge and unity among diverse ethnic groups, while also paying tribute to the women who laid the foundation of Guinea-Bissau’s cultural identity.

“Nteregu” will be preceded by “Sita Bella, The First”, a 31-minute Cameroonian short film by Eugenie Metala and Jean-Marie Téno. It reflects on the largely forgotten legacy of Thérèse Sita-Bella, one of Africa’s first female filmmakers and Cameroon’s first woman journalist and pilot.

The 2024 New York African Film Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for African cinema, showcasing a diverse range of stories that reflect the continent’s history, resilience, and creativity.