Souleymane Cissé, a prominent Malian filmmaker, passed away on February 20, 2025, in Bamako, Mali, at the age of 84. Cissé was a significant figure in the film industry, known for his contributions to African cinema over a career spanning five decades.
His most notable achievement came in 1987 with the release of Yeelen (meaning „Light“ in Bambara), which earned him the prestigious Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. This recognition marked him as the first Black African filmmaker to receive this honor.
Cissé’s impact on cinema extended beyond his films. He was a vocal advocate for African storytelling and culture, working tirelessly to promote the works of other African filmmakers. He was also set to lead the jury at the upcoming Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (Fespaco) at the time of his passing.
His recent activities included participating in a news conference where he presented awards just hours before his death. Cissé’s final days were marked by his dedication to his craft, as he continued to travel and engage with the global film community.
Throughout his life, Cissé received numerous accolades, solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in the film industry. His contributions will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
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