Rwandan actor and filmmaker Gaël Kamilindi, who has built a strong career in Switzerland and France, is gaining new international recognition as his documentary film “Didy” competes in the 14th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in Nigeria. The festival, which runs from November 2 to November 8, 2025, has included the film in its international documentary category alongside productions from Austria, France, and several other countries.
“Didy,” directed by Kamilindi in collaboration with François-Xavier Destors, is a personal story inspired by the filmmaker’s life. It explores memories of his mother, Didy, who passed away when he was only five years old, and reflects on the emotional journey of navigating loss, family, and identity.
Kamilindi was born in 1986 in the Democratic Republic of Congo and later moved to Switzerland, where he grew up. In 2011, he completed his studies at the prestigious Conservatoire National d’Art Dramatique in Paris, before embarking on a professional career that has included collaborations with celebrated directors such as Bob Wilson, Jean-Pierre Vincent, Krzysztof Warlikowski, Mélanie Laurent, and Denis Podalydès. In 2017, he joined La Comédie-Française, one of the most respected theater institutions in France. Beyond acting on stage and screen, his voice has been used in productions for Gallimard, Radio France, Philharmonie de Paris, and in various documentary films.
“Didy” adds to Kamilindi’s growing film portfolio, which includes films such as “Taxi Moto” set to be released in 2026, “Les Resquilleurs” (2025), and “Freedom” (2024). As an actor, he has appeared in works like “Looking She Said I Forget,” “L’Oiseau blanc,” and “Night Shift,” the latter co-directed by Rwandan actress and filmmaker Kayije Kagame. His participation in AFRIFF highlights the continued rise of Rwandan talent on the global stage and strengthens the country’s presence in African cinema.
