The World AI Film Festival (WAIFF) is taking its global platform to Africa, hosting its first regional contest in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, and receiving applications from filmmakers and audiovisual artists in 10 West and Central African countries.
The call for entries opened on 24 September 2026 and will remain open until 31 December 2026. The competition is targeting creators from Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, Benin, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Togo, Burkina Faso and Chad, giving practitioners in these markets an opportunity to present AI-driven work on an international stage.
Seven categories are available: AI Short Film, AI Vertical, AI Advertising/Branded Content, AI Music Video, AI Documentary, Social Impact Prize and Best Female Creation Prize.
DUX Côte d'Ivoire and Kaydan Technology, both part of the Abidjan-based Kaydan Group, are delivering the Abidjan edition through a franchise agreement with Institut EuropIA, the French organisation behind WAIFF. The agreement covering the 10 participating African markets was signed on 18 June 2026 during VivaTech in Paris.
In addition to the contest itself, a training programme on audiovisual AI is being developed for more than 300 participants. The programme includes seven modules to be held from October to December 2026 and will cover the practical application of AI in audiovisual production.
The regional programme will culminate in an awards ceremony in Abidjan on 6 February 2027. The winning African films will then advance to the WAIFF International finals, to be held in Cannes, France, from 6-7 April 2027.
The project opens an avenue for African content creators to use AI in their productions, tell stories, and do business by showcasing innovative techniques in their region.
