Kenya has an Oscar contender for the 2025 Academy Awards. Nawi will represent the East African country as it vies for a position in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th edition of the annual event.
The film was chosen “for its powerful narrative, outstanding performances, and the unique perspective it brings to the global cinema landscape,” a statement on the Kenya Film Commission website says. “The film represents the incredible growth and potential of Kenya’s film industry.”
The announcement was shared by the commission on social media. Nawi came out victorious in a contest that included three other films: Searching for Amani, Otis Janam, and Wamaitha. Although officially comprised of eight persons, the selection committee behind this year’s decision had two absent members. It was led by Eddah Kiruhi.
Nawi follows its titular hero, a courageous 14-year-old girl faced with the burden of familial expectations and societal norms, including the ancient tradition of child marriage as carried out by her community.
Vallentine Chelluget, Apuu Mourine, Kevin Schmutzler, and Toby Schmutzler are credited as directors. And cast members include Michelle Lemuya Ikeny, Joel Liwan, Nyokabi Macharia, Marrianne Nungo, and Benson Ochungo Obiero.
Nawi‘s selection at this early stage of the Academy Awards comes a year on from the selection of Mvera ahead of the 2024 event. Directed by Daudi Angaka the film is now streaming on Netflix.
Mvera is the story of a woman who gets trapped by a trafficking ring. Like Nawi, the film has an eponymous protagonist. It stars Susan Khadide, Carolyne Rita Mutua, and Hillary Namanje. Mvera didn’t make it to the nomination stage of the 2024 Oscars.
