Portal:African cinema/Selected score/15

Rafiki (Swahili for 'friend') is a 2018 Kenyan drama film directed by Wanuri Kahiu. The film had its international premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival; the first Kenyan film to be screened at the festival. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Nairobi, Rafiki tells the story of a romance between two young women, Kena and Ziki, while exploring themes of friendship, love, and the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Kenya.

The soundtrack features songs by all-female African musicians—in addition to Blinky Bill—and with all but one track being Kenyan. Kahiu selected the songs featuring a mix of contemporary Kenyan pop, Afrobeat, and traditional sounds from performers that include Muthoni Drummer Queen, Mayonde, Jaaz Odongo, Trina Mungai, Njoki Karu, Chemutai Sage, and Zambian musician Mumbi Kasumba. According to Njoki Karu, Kahiu selected three of her songs after hearing her sing "Nita" at a concert. Kahiu asked Karu if she had more similar songs, and selected two additional songs which are featured on the soundtrack, "Secret Love" and "Stay.