United States of Africa

African hip hop pioneer Didier Awadi is on a quest to pay tribute to the revolutionary African leaders, their struggle for self-determination, and their dream of a united, independent Africa. As he crafts his new album, Awadi visits some 40 countries to collaborate with hip hop activist artists, including the outspoken Smockey (Burkina Faso), M-1 of Dead Prez (United States) and ZuluBoy (South Africa). Beyond music, this is a hopeful and compelling portrait of a continent whose politically aware youth is refusing to accept the role of victim, and an impassioned call for Africans to rise up, take a stand and take control of their destiny.

Dir. Yanick Létourneau. Canada. 2012. 86 min. Print Source: filmmaker

In partnership with South by South at the South London Gallery.

Free