CineQ Presents: Rafiki

Fri 22 Mar 2019

Kena (Samantha Mugatsia) and free spirit Ziki (Sheila Munyiva) both dream of a life beyond the stifling confines of their conservative Nairobi neighbourhood.

From the moment the two young women meet, the connection is clear and their budding friendship blossoms into something more serious, forcing these star-crossed lovers to make an impossible choice between happiness and safety.

Adapted from a Ugandan short story, Monica Arac de Nyeko’s Jambula Tree, a national ban was enforced on Rafiki for its supposed ‘intent to promote lesbianism in Kenya, contrary to the law’. Such intolerance only serves as a testament to the unabashed courage director Wanuri Kahiu demonstrates in telling queer stories in a country where gay sex is still a punishable offence.

The screening will be preceded by a CineQ drinks reception held in the bar from 7pm.

 

Price: £8.10 – £9.00 Duration:83 mins
Genres:DramaDirector:Wanuri Kahiu
Cast:Samantha Mugatsia, Sheila Munviya
Year of Release: 2018

More Birmingham Listings MORE

Birmingham Tuesday 6 October to Saturday 10 October 2026

Sylvia

Sylvia tells the powerful and often overlooked story of Sylvia Pankhurst — a fearless, complex and determined figure…

Birmingham Monday 19th October 2026

Lenny Henry: Still At Large

Join Sir Lenny Henry for an evening of comedy, storytelling and reflection as Still At Large arrives in…

Birmingham Wednesday 21st October – Thursday 22nd October 2026

Made You Look

Made You Look comes to Birmingham Rep for a powerful and immersive performance, offering a bold exploration of…

Birmingham Wednesday 21 October and Thursday 22 October 2026

Made You Look

Made You Look is a visceral and explosive one-man performance that blends spoken word, physical theatre, visual art…