Malian film director Souleymane Cissé, a pioneer of African cinema, has passed away at the age of 84.
His daughter, Mariam Cissé, confirmed his death in the capital Bamako, expressing sorrow over the loss of a man who dedicated his life to film and art. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Cissé gained international acclaim in 1987 when his film Yeelen (The Light) won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, making him the first filmmaker from sub-Saharan Africa to receive an award at the prestigious event.
His career spanned over 50 years, earning him numerous accolades, including a Carrosse d’Or award from Cannes in 2023.
The filmmaker was also a double winner of the grand prize at the Pan-African Film Festival, Fespaco. He was set to preside over the festival’s jury in Burkina Faso before his untimely passing.
Tributes have poured in for Cissé, with Mali’s Culture Minister Mamou Daffé mourning the loss of this monument of African cinema. Fellow Malian director Boubacar Sidibé described the country’s film industry as being in mourning.
Cissé’s works have been praised for their complexity, political engagement, and deep humanity.
His first feature film, Den Muso (The Young Girl), shot in 1975 in the local Bambara language, is considered an African classic. Despite facing challenges and being banned by Malian authorities, Cissé continued to create impactful films like Finyè (The Wind) and Waati (Time).
Born in Bamako, Cissé studied film in Moscow and became one of the first generation of African filmmakers. He advocated for government support and investment in the film industry, emphasizing the importance of visibility for African cinema.
Hours before his death, Cissé urged Mali’s military government to help the country’s film industry thrive and catch up with continental rivals.
He stressed the need for the construction of cinemas to showcase African cinematic works.
