Question 1

Why was 'Rafiki' banned in Kenya?

Accepted Answer

Since homosexuality is illegal in Kenya, the lesbian love story was banned by the country's film classification board. The director won a week's suspension of the ban in September 2018 from the Kenyan High Court, allowing locals to see it briefly.

Question 2

What does the title 'Rafiki' mean?

Accepted Answer

The title means 'friend' in the Kiswahili language and indicates the need in an intolerant society to disguise a same-sex romance as a platonic friendship.

Question 3

Which short story inspired 'Rafiki'?

Accepted Answer

It is inspired by Ugandan Monica Arac de Nyeko's 2007 Caine Prize-winning short story 'Jambula Tree'.

Question 4

At which film festivals was 'Rafiki' featured?

Accepted Answer

It was featured at festivals including Cannes Film Festival (2018), Toronto International Film Festival (2018), AFI Fest (2018), Berlin International Film Festival (2010), and many others.

Question 5

What conflict drives the story of 'Rafiki'?

Accepted Answer

Despite the political rivalry between their families, Kena and Ziki resist and remain close friends. When love blossoms between them, they must choose between happiness and safety in a conservative society.

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Rafiki

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