The 11th edition of the Sotigui Awards, held from November 11 to 14, 2026, at the Centre Culturel du Faso in Ouaga 2000, Burkina Faso, celebrated the best talents in African cinema and its diaspora. Senegalese actor Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye won the Sotigui Award for Best Actor in West Africa for his role in the film "Valdiodio". This award recognizes Ndiaye's outstanding performance in the film, which tells the story of Valdiodio Ndiaye, a Senegalese politician who was arrested and imprisoned during a political crisis in 1962.
"Valdiodio" is a film directed and produced by Amina Ndiaye Leclerc, which explores the life of Valdiodio Ndiaye, an iconic figure in Senegalese politics. The film delves into the events of December 1962, when Valdiodio Ndiaye, then Minister of the Interior, was arrested and sentenced to prison along with other politicians. Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye's portrayal of Valdiodio Ndiaye has been praised for its nuance and depth, bringing to life the complexities of a historical figure.
Upon receiving the award, Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye expressed his gratitude to the Sotigui Awards and Amina Ndiaye Leclerc for entrusting him with the role. He also acknowledged the support of the Senegalese public and the Direction de la cinématographie. Ndiaye noted that playing a historical figure was a challenging task, requiring a deep understanding of the character's significance and impact on the country's history.
The film "Valdiodio" not only explores the political and historical context of Senegal but also delves into the personal and family aspects of Valdiodio Ndiaye's life. The story follows the impact of his arrest and imprisonment on his family, particularly his daughter Amina, who was only ten years old at the time. This blend of historical and personal narratives adds depth and complexity to the film.
Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye's award is a significant recognition of his talent and contribution to Senegalese cinema. The Sotigui Awards, now in their 11th edition, have become a prominent platform for celebrating African cinema and its diaspora. This year's ceremony highlighted the best in African filmmaking, with Ndiaye's award serving as a testament to the excellence of Senegalese cinema.
The film "Valdiodio" is a significant work in Senegalese cinema, as it sheds light on a pivotal moment in the country's history. By bringing this story to the screen, Amina Ndiaye Leclerc and Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye have contributed to the preservation and dissemination of Senegalese cultural heritage. This award serves as a reminder of the importance of cinema in transmitting historical and cultural knowledge.
The 11th edition of the Sotigui Awards was a celebration of African cinema, with various films and actors receiving recognition for their outstanding work. Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye's award for Best Actor in West Africa is a notable achievement, not only for him but also for Senegalese cinema as a whole. This recognition will likely inspire future generations of Senegalese filmmakers and actors to strive for excellence in their craft.
Key points
- Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye won the Sotigui Award for Best Actor in West Africa for his role in the film "Valdiodio".
