You have just published a guide to audiovisual and film production in French-speaking Africa. Why did you decide to produce this guide?
RS: The film and audiovisual industry in French-speaking Africa is booming, with a wealth of cultural and artistic talent just waiting to be discovered. For enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike, our guide to audiovisual and film production is an invaluable source of information, inspiration, and knowledge. It responds to a need that has often been expressed to us for a comprehensive overview of the current state of production in French-speaking Africa in 2023.
Can't we just find the information on the Internet?
PS: This is a question we have often been asked: "Why do you want to produce a paper guide when all the up-to-date information is more easily available on the Internet?"
The reality is quite different, as those familiar with French-speaking Africa are well aware: when you do a simple Google search such as "what are the film production companies in Benin," the results include production companies that rent equipment or studios, companies that produce films for weddings or private events, and companies whose last production dates back to 2006…
In order to produce this guide, we conducted extensive research, filtering, and verification, and contacted all companies active in 2023 that are listed in our guide to verify and complete the information. This work guarantees the quality and relevance of information that you cannot find anywhere else.
This guide is therefore not just a simple directory…
RS: Our guide offers an insight into the world of audiovisual production in French-speaking Africa, providing practical advice on the various professions, inspiring testimonials from decision-makers and creators, and a comprehensive directory of those involved in creating today's works. It also includes a list of all the initiatives (schools or private organizations) that offer training courses in production.
It is an indispensable tool for anyone who wants to have an up-to-date overview of the audiovisual and film production situation in French-speaking Africa.
How did you finance the production and publication of this guide?
RS: We pulled several levers to secure funding for the Guide:
We sought financial support from companies interested in promoting culture and the film industry in French-speaking Africa: CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL, MEDIAWAN AFRICA, RTI, and TV5 MONDE, which are the driving forces behind the production industry in Africa. They immediately supported and encouraged our initiative, and we thank them warmly for that.
We also offered advertising space to provide high visibility for those who wanted to promote their business.
Finally, we offer direct sales of the guide at a price of €99, with more economical options available for bulk purchases.
How to obtain your guide?
PS: To subscribe to our guide to audiovisual production in French-speaking Africa, simply contact us at rene@adweknow.com or pierre@adweknow.com, specifying the number of copies you would like, or fill out our subscription form.
What is your next step?
PS: It is clear that the next step for us is to digitize all the information we have, on a website that can be updated in real time and which will also offer all the richness that digital technology allows (visuals, videos, trailers, etc.).
We want to bring together a community that is collectively committed to the growth and promotion of the production sector. Through our website, members will be able to connect with other professionals, share ideas, collaborate on projects, and stay informed about the latest industry trends and upcoming events.
We are confident that all those who questioned the value of our paper project will this time participate in financing this project, which is both highly ambitious and absolutely essential.