The Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), the development impact investment arm of Afreximbank, has appointed One Street Studios as co-general partner of the Pan-African Film Fund, a landmark initiative designed to mobilise up to US$1 billion to accelerate the growth of Africa’s film and creative industries.
The appointment marks an important milestone in strengthening Africa’s creative economy by providing long-term financing for film, television and immersive media projects with strong commercial and international distribution potential.
Launched in May 2025 under the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme, the Pan-African Film Fund aims to position Africa as a globally competitive hub for audiovisual production and storytelling. The fund will invest across the creative value chain, supporting content production, industry infrastructure and distribution through a combination of equity, quasi-equity and structured financing solutions.
One Street Studios, a production company that finances, develops and produces creative projects, will work alongside FEDA as co-general partner to identify and support high-potential investment opportunities across the continent. The partnership combines investment expertise with deep industry knowledge to establish a scalable platform for Africa’s expanding creative sector.
The fund will prioritise export-oriented productions capable of reaching international audiences through partnerships with global studios, streaming platforms and distributors. By improving access to finance and strengthening production capacity, the initiative aims to enhance Africa’s competitiveness in the global entertainment market.
President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, Dr George Elombi, said the partnership comes at a pivotal time for Africa’s creative economy. He noted that the collaboration will strengthen connections between Africa and its diaspora while empowering African creators to tell authentic stories and build a sustainable creative industry owned by Africans.
Lavaille Lavette, Chief Executive Officer of the Pan-African Film Fund and Managing Partner at One Street Studios and JVL Media, said the continent’s creative industries are entering a transformative era. She explained that the fund will mobilise long-term capital to support creators, expand production capabilities and establish sustainable global distribution pathways for African content.
FEDA Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Assiak said African storytelling possesses exceptional cultural richness and global appeal. He added that the Pan-African Film Fund will help creators produce world-class content while connecting them with international audiences and long-term investment opportunities.
The initiative reflects the growing importance of the creative economy as a driver of economic diversification, exports, employment and cultural influence across Africa. By expanding access to investment and strengthening industry infrastructure, the Pan-African Film Fund is expected to unlock new opportunities for filmmakers, producers and creative entrepreneurs while elevating African storytelling on the global stage.