Malian filmmaker Souleymane Cissé, a foundational figure in African cinema, has passed away at the age of 84. His death was confirmed on February 19 at a clinic in Bamako, Mali, according to his daughter, Mariam Cissé, who expressed deep sorrow for the loss of her father, stating, "We are all in shock. He dedicated all his life to his country, to cinema and to art."

Cissé gained international acclaim when he became the first Black African filmmaker to win the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 1987 for his landmark film Yeelen (The Light), a tale rooted in the oral traditions of West Africa. Later recognized with the 2023 Carrosse d'Or at Cannes for his lifetime achievements, Cissé's work has profoundly influenced both African storytelling and the world of cinema.

The cause of Cissé’s death has not been disclosed, but he had reportedly been active until his last day, recently holding a press conference where he presented prizes for the upcoming FESPACO festival in Burkina Faso, which he was set to lead as jury president.

Tributes have flowed in from across the globe. Fellow filmmakers and cultural figures have lauded Cissé for his commitment to African cinema. Mali’s Culture Minister, Mamou Daffé, referred to him as "a monument of African cinema," while his compatriot, director Boubacar Sidibé, noted that the Malian film community is in "mourning."

Born in Bamako, Cissé’s passion for film led him on a diverse educational journey spanning Mali, Senegal, and Russia. His impactful works often addressed critical social issues and were marked by rich cultural narratives. However, the road was not without struggle; Cissé faced censorship and political challenges throughout his career.

Just hours before his unexpected passing, Cissé emphasized the need for greater support from Mali's military government for the film industry, advocating for visible cinematic works and the construction of more cinemas. His poignant statements underscored a lifelong dedication to ensuring that African stories reached both local and international audiences.

The legacy of Souleymane Cissé, echoed in the hearts of many, will continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers.

For more details, check the article from The New York Times and Le Monde.