Born in
Niger, Rahmatou Keïta is a descendant of
Sundiata Keïta. She has remarked that she embodies the true essence of the
Sahelian countries, being of
Fulani,
Songhai and
Mandingo ancestry. After studying philosophy and linguistics in
Paris, she started her career in France. Before becoming a movie director, she made a name for herself as a journalist for European TV channels. She appeared on the cultural programme '''' on
France 2. She directs short films and created the TV series ''Femmes d'Afrique
(Women from Africa)'' (26 x 26 minutes episodes – 1993–1997), which screened on national channels in Africa. With friends, Keïta started
Sonrhay Empire Productions to produce films "off the beaten track". In 2005, her first feature film, ''Al'lèèssi
..., about pioneers of African cinema such as Zalika Souley, was selected at Cannes Film Festival and won the Sojourner Truth Award. Al'lèèssi…'' received several awards, including Best Documentary Award at Montreal and at the FIFAI. A committed activist for African causes, Keïta is a founding member of the
Panafrican Association for Culture (ASPAC) and takes an active part in the dialogue of cultures and civilisations. In 2016, her film ''
Zin'naariyâ! (The Wedding Ring'') was released. Her daughter
Magaajyia Silberfeld is an actress and director. == Filmography ==