RAFIKI

Bursting with the colorful street style & music of Nairobi’s vibrant youth culture, RAFIKI is a tender love story between two young women in a country that still criminalizes homosexuality. Kena and Ziki have long been told that “good Kenyan girls become good Kenyan wives” - but they yearn for something more. Despite the political rivalry between their families, the girls encourage each other to pursue their dreams in a conservative society. When love blossoms between them, Kena and Ziki must choose between happiness and safety.

Initially banned in Kenya for its positive portrayal of queer romance, RAFIKI won a landmark supreme court case chipping away at Kenyan anti-LGBT legislation. Featuring remarkable performances by newcomers Samantha Mugatsia and Sheila Munyiva, RAFIKI is a hip tale of first love “reminiscent of the early work of Spike Lee” (Screen Daily) that’s “impossible not to celebrate” (Variety)!

Harlem Pride, Theatrical Release Partner
Harlem 2020, Opening Night Partner

SPECIAL EVENTS!

4/19 - OPENING NIGHT AFTERPARTY at 10pm - Free w/ ticket stub to ANY Rafiki showing at the Sol Cinema Cafe FKA RAW SPACE

4/20 - 4/20 CELEBRATION at the April 20th 5:15 screening of RAFIKI - In honor of 4/20, RAFIKI will be proceeded by short film THE BEST GUEST by Ngozi Kim in collaboration w/ GoziTV.com

THE BEST GUEST, is a short film about a 20 something woman rents her couch out to strangers to make ends meet, things get interesting when a guest helps her more than she can even expect. Filmmaker Ngozi Kim will be present at the 5:15pm screening to introduce her film and participate in the post screening discussion.

4/21 - Q&A w/ director Wanuri Kahiu after the 3pm showing