In a groundbreaking initiative set to reshape the African film landscape, the African Film DAO (AFD) presents Women on Chain—an event designed to empower women in the film and blockchain industries. Scheduled for January 31, 2026, this immersive gathering takes place at the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation as a pivotal satellite event leading up to the much-anticipated Hollywood African Cinema Connection (HACC) in October 2026.
The timing of the announcement aligns with the national commemoration of the Total Shutdown movement, a poignant reminder of the urgent need to tackle gender-based violence in South Africa. It underscores the essential role of economic empowerment as a pillar of liberation for women across the continent. Jenni Williams, founder of the AFD, highlights the dual mission of the event: “Women on Chain not only aims to amplify female voices in film but also to ensure they possess economic and creative ownership within the industry.”
A screenshot from the movie ‘My Body Is Not Your Crime Scene’.
Rooted in innovation, the African Film DAO emerged from the pioneering Two Hues NFT project led by award-winning filmmaker Weaam Williams. This critically acclaimed short film marked Africa’s first NFT-distributed film, utilising blockchain technology to create new revenue models for independent cinema. According to Williams, “This was just the beginning; we are committed to exploring how blockchain can fundamentally reshape everything from film funding to rights management and distribution.”
The programme includes “The Women on Chain” panel featuring leaders in the film and blockchain sectors, as well as an excellent selection of films made by women.
Towards the end of the day Holocene Labs will launch a DApp (Decentralised Application) one of the tools from the company’s slate of proprietary technology in development.
A screenshot from the movie ‘My Body Is Not Your Crime Scene’.
Tickets for the event are available via Quicket at the early bird rate of R300 until 15 December, with the full programme accessible athaccfilm.crd.co. The AFD is collaborating with influential organisations, such as HerDAO and Sisters Working in Film and TV, to strengthen the framework ensuring that female filmmakers receive recognition, support, and equitable opportunities in the industry.
Women on Chain is not merely an event; it signifies a movement to bridge the gap between film and blockchain, fostering collaboration among women leaders spanning technology, finance, culture, and media. The initiative aims to set new industry standards where female filmmakers enjoy substantial ownership and active participation. Williams continues: “By gathering innovators, technologists, and activists, we’re working towards a future where African women in film achieve both creative empowerment and economic liberation.”
A screenshot from the movie ‘My Body Is Not Your Crime Scene’.
As Women on Chain launches a year-long journey of engagement leading to HACC 2026, the African Film DAO invites partners, creatives, and supporters to reimagine the contours of African cinema, ensuring that women not only tell their stories but also possess the resources, recognition, and opportunities they rightfully deserve. Interested collaborators can reach out via the websitehaccfilm.crd.co.
The government has officially classified gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster, following intensifying nationwide protests and growing concern over the abuse of women and children ahead of the G20 Leaders Summit.The official classification comes after Women for Change led a nationwide shutdown on Friday November 21, the day before the summit, demanding stronger action against GBVF.Minister of Cooperative Governance Velenkosini Hlabisa confirmed that the National Disaster Management […]
