Bursting with the colorful street style and music of Nairobi’s vibrant youth culture, Rafiki is a tender love story between two young women in love 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. Based on the award-winning short story “Jambula Tree” (2008) by the Ugandan author Monica Arac de Nyeko, Rafiki tells of an African youth who resolutely rebel against homophobia, religious dogmas and the austerity of their parents. It is a stirring film that glows with a love of freedom and joie de vivre.

Images courtesy of Film Movement.

“A burst of unfiltered teenage energy. … [Kahiu] has a wonderful eye for detail and lyricism.” – Emily Yoshida, Vulture

“This director knows how to capture on film the wonderful feeling of falling in love.” – Charles Mudede, The Stranger

“While Western countries are still struggling to produce many queer stories that don’t end in misery and death, or that focus solely on the white male experience, the Kenyan-focused, neon-pink romance of Rafiki is exactly what the world needs.” – Katy Moon, One Room with a View