Goodbye, Souleymane Cissé: A Legend's Final Bow
- Sahndra Fon Dufe
- Feb 20
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 21
As the news of Souleymane Cissé's passing reaches us, the world of African cinema grieves the loss of a true icon. At 84, Cissé was more than a filmmaker; he was a visionary, a historian of our collective stories, and a beacon for generations of storytellers. Just months ago, we stood together at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF) 2024, where he was honored in a momentous celebration of his life's work. Today, we say goodbye to one of the last elders of African cinema. We’re very sad to see him go, but glad we were a small part of “giving him flowers”, when he walked with us.
How We Met:
Cissé was honored at SVAFF’s Icons Awards on Sunday, October 13, a tribute that, in hindsight, feels even more poignant now. During the ceremony, he shared words that will forever echo in my mind: "Go back and watch all the movies we made, and it will tell you what we have covered, and where to continue." As I translated for him that evening, I was deeply moved by the weight of his words—a call to all filmmakers to honor the past as we shape the future.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Born on April 21, 1940, Cissé was part of a pioneering generation of African filmmakers who emerged in the post-colonial era, using cinema to explore African identity, history, and culture. Alongside visionaries like Ousmane Sembène, Djibril Diop Mambéty, Med Hondo, Sarah Maldoror, and Haile Gerima, he carved a space for African narratives in global cinema. His films, notably Yeelen, which captivated audiences at Cannes, remain timeless testaments to his genius.
His presence at SVAFF 2024 was a gift. Seated among fellow luminaries such as John Kani, RMD, and Julie Dash, he was revered—not just as a filmmaker but as a storyteller whose voice shaped the very fabric of African cinema. I am grateful that we had the chance to give him his flowers while he was here, thanks to Chike Nwoffiah’s vision. Seeing Dash herself starstruck by his presence spoke volumes about the impact he had across generations and borders.
With 85 films from 38 countries showcased, SVAFF 2024 stood as a testament to the vibrant future of African storytelling. The festival recognized young talent, including 21-year-old Ozie Nzeberibe, who received the Trailblazer Award—proof that the seeds planted by Cissé and his peers continue to flourish.
Cissé's insights remind us of the importance of heritage in filmmaking. His work, which often focuses on themes of identity, history, and culture, has paved the way for new voices to emerge and flourish. He was the current president of FESPACO, the prestigious Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou, Cissé is dedicated to nurturing upcoming talent, ensuring that African narratives continue to resonate on a global scale.
SOULEYMANE CISSE FILMOGRAPHY
Born on April 21, 1940, Cissé belongs to a pioneering generation of African filmmakers who emerged in the post-colonial period, focusing on African identity, history, and culture through cinema. Other notable filmmakers from his era include:
Ousmane Sembène (Senegal) – Often referred to as the "father of African cinema," he passed away in 2007.
Djibril Diop Mambéty (Senegal) – Known for his avant-garde films, especially Touki Bouki and Hyenas, he passed away in 1998.
Med Hondo (Mauritania) – A revolutionary filmmaker whose work tackled colonialism and migration, he passed away in 2019.
Sarah Maldoror (France/Angola) – A pioneering woman in African cinema known for Sambizanga, she passed away in 2020.
Haile Gerima (Ethiopia) – Known for films like Sankofa and Teza, Gerima is still active today.
Souleymane Cissé's voice has significantly contributed to amplifying African narratives on the global stage by showcasing the depth and richness of the continent's stories, inviting international audiences to engage with African culture in a profound way. His pioneering films, such as Yeelen (which captivated audiences at Cannes), reflect a stark and beautiful visual style that marries traditional storytelling with cinematic innovation. This mastery has paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers, including notable directors like Abderrahmane Sissako, whose work continues to resonate worldwide; Wanuri Kahiu, known for her bold explorations of contemporary themes; and Haile Gerima, who keeps the legacy of African storytelling alive through his thought-provoking narratives.
Cissé didn’t merely walk the path—he ran, creating a legacy that inspires others to reclaim their narratives amidst the distractions of modern cinema. His journey raises the question: will someone revive that strikingly beautiful style that once captured the world's imagination.
Souleymane Cissé’s passing leaves a void, but his legacy is immortal. He didn’t just make films—he charted a path for all of us to follow. Now, as we mourn his departure, we also celebrate the towering legacy he leaves behind. He urged us to learn from the past and carry the torch forward. That call remains, and we must answer it.
Goodbye, maestro. Thank you for the stories, the wisdom, and the path you paved. May your spirit live on in every frame, in every story, and in every African filmmaker who dares to dream.
GOODBYE FROM THE SILICON VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL
Our story on Souleymane Cisse at SVAFF Link
Watch event Highlights here
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