By Ibrahim S. Bangura
FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – The Indigenous Filmmakers Association has announced an open audition call for an upcoming historical film, Slavery (Rice and Mosquito Connection), set to explore the untold narratives of the transatlantic slave trade. The auditions will take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Ahmadiyya Muslim Secondary School in Makama, Makeni, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The film, written and directed by renowned filmmaker Alfred Harun Thullah, aims to shed light on the resilience and cultural legacy of African people, highlighting an often-overlooked aspect of history—the role of rice cultivation in the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and yellow fever.
In a statement, the organizers described the film as groundbreaking, blending dramatic storytelling with historical reenactments and cultural interpretation. Thullah emphasized the significance of reclaiming African narratives, stating, “The transatlantic slave trade is one of the most painful chapters in our collective history, but within that story is also the strength, ingenuity, and cultural legacy of African peoples. With this film, we want to tell our story from our perspective.”
The auditions are open to both aspiring and experienced actors. Organizers encourage widespread participation, with audition forms available at 7 Piston Lane, Makeni.
Beyond its historical themes, the film aims to foster discussions on public health, cultural heritage, and the lasting effects of colonial-era agricultural and environmental practices. Thullah hopes the project will inspire critical thinking and dialogue. “This isn’t just a film about the past,” he said. “It’s a film about who we are today, how we got here, and where we are going.”
The Indigenous Filmmakers Association has long championed local talent and authentic storytelling, reinforcing African ownership over historical narratives. As anticipation builds, Sierra Leoneans and aspiring actors alike are encouraged to seize this opportunity to be part of a film that promises to be both educational and profoundly impactful.