Tanzanite International Animation Festival
An annual celebration of local and international animations and digital content






Award Categories

2D Animation Short Film
This category is dedicated to outstanding 2D animated short films that showcase creativity, storytelling, and artistic excellence. We welcome submissions from both emerging and established animators and studios, spanning all genres and themes.

3D Animation Short Film
This category is dedicated to outstanding 3D animated short films that showcase innovation in visual storytelling, character animation, and world-building. We welcome submissions from both emerging and established animators and studios, spanning all genres and themes.

Feature-Length Animation
This category celebrates feature-length animated films that showcase outstanding storytelling, artistic excellence, and technical mastery. Open to all animation styles from 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and experimental animation. This category welcomes submissions from both independent creators and established studios. The category highlights the power of animation in long-form storytelling.

Animated Series & Web Animation
This category is dedicated to episodic animated content, including TV series pilots, web series episodes, and digital-first animations. Whether it's a short-form web animation, a compelling series pilot, or an ongoing animated show, this category celebrates innovative storytelling and characters across genres and styles, including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and mixed media.

Student Animation
This category is dedicated to student-created animated films, celebrating fresh talent and innovative storytelling from the next generation of animators. Open to all animation styles including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and experimental animation. This category provides a platform for students to showcase their creativity and technical skills. Whether it's a short film, a series episode, or a unique animated experiment, this category highlights emerging voices in animation.

Animated Commercial
This category is dedicated to animated commercials, advertisements, promotional videos, and branded content that use animation to engage audiences and deliver compelling messages. Open to all animation styles, including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and motion graphics. This category highlights the power of animation in marketing, storytelling, and visual branding.

Animated Visual Effects
This category celebrates the art of animated visual effects (VFX) used to enhance storytelling in films, commercials, music videos, and other media. Whether it's 2D, 3D, or mixed-media VFX. This category highlights the seamless fusion of animation and visual effects in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on screen.

Stop Motion
This category celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of stop-motion animation, where each frame is meticulously created by hand to bring characters and stories to life. Whether it’s claymation, puppetry, cut-out animation, or object animation, this category highlights the unique and tangible nature of stop-motion in all its forms.

Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR)
This category is dedicated to immersive animation experiences created through Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). We welcome submissions that utilize cutting-edge technology to create innovative and engaging experiences that blend animation with interactive environments. From 360-degree animated films and VR worlds to AR-driven storytelling and installations. Eligibility: Submissions must be created using VR or AR technologies in animation or interactive experiences.

People's Choice
The People’s Choice Award is a special category dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the talent, creativity, and impact of local Tanzanian creatives. This category gives the power to the public, allowing fans and supporters to vote for their favorite artist, animator, filmmaker, or creative professional. It’s an opportunity for creatives to showcase their work, engage with their audience, and gain well-deserved recognition within the industry. The nominee with the highest number of votes will be crowned the People’s Choice Winner, making this a true reflection of community support and appreciation.
Experience Tanzanite Festival
Discover Our Experiences
🎬 Exclusive Film Screenings -Showcasing top-tier 2D, 3D, and stop-motion animation.
🗣 Panel Discussions-Learning from industry pioneers.
💡 Pitching Sessions -Presenting projects to investors and producers.
🖼 Workshops & Exhibitions - Showcasing breathtaking animated visuals.
🎤 Red Carpet & Networking- Connecting with key industry players.
🏆 Award Ceremony – Celebrating animation’s best talents.
🖼 Masterclass - Advanced lessons with industry experts
🖼 Meet and Greet and Perfomances- Cultural ad mordern perfomances
SUBMISSION deadline COUNTDOWN
TANZANITE FESTIVAL’s Growing Legacy
As we gear up for TANZANITE FESTIVAL 2025, we continue our mission to uplift creatives, amplify African stories, and connect global audiences.
1,089+
Submissions from 97 countries in our last edition.
More attendees
Boost your experience with an increase in exciting activities.
10+
Major award categories celebrating diverse animation styles.
A platform for emerging and established creatives to showcase their work globally.
Meet our team
Dedicated professionals driving our success

Emilien A.HIRWA
Festival Director & lead Cordinator
Oversees festival planning, partnerships, and team management while managing submissions and programs as the festival’s main representative.

Ian tarimo
Festival Executive Director
oversees the long-term success of the festival by leading its strategic vision, event coordination, and team management.
Idriss Mshoro
Marketing & Communications Manager
Leads marketing campaigns, media outreach, and social media while overseeing content creation and website updates.
Maria Hyera
Operations Lead
Oversees venue setup, event schedules, and festival policies while ensuring the seamless execution of all festival activities.
Gwamaka Mwabuka
Masterclass & Workshops Lead
Organizes workshops, masterclasses, and industry panels while coordinating speakers, VIP guests, and pitching activities.

Aileth Jonas
Finance & Logistics Coordinator
Manages transportation, security, delegations, and on-site operations while ensuring financial compliance and contract management.
Victor Lyamuya
Technical & innovation Lead
Manages audiovisual setups, screenings, & digital experiences & ensuring smooth operations & overseeing the website.
Alphonce Haule
Programming, Jury & Film Selection Lead
Curates film submissions, manages the jury panel and awards, and ensures a diverse, high-quality selection also coordinates with filmmakers.
Alice P.Kilasa
Technical & innovation TEAM
Assist with audiovisual setups, screenings, digital experiences, and technical operations.
Shalene Liani
Volunteers and reception Manager
Manager volunteers while overseeing guest check-in and providing excellent customer service.
Samli Hassan
Technical & innovation TEAM
Assist with audiovisual setups, screenings, digital experiences, and technical operations.
Felistian P. Felix
Content TEAM
Support marketing campaigns, social media, content creation, and media outreach.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you can find answers to frequently asked questions about our festival.
Tanzanite International Animation Festival is an annual event that celebrates animation, visual storytelling, and creative innovation. It showcases animated films, hosts workshops, networking opportunities, and industry discussions.
The festival is open to animation enthusiasts, filmmakers, students, industry professionals, and the general public. Anyone passionate about animation and storytelling is welcome!
We currently accept submissions through FilmFreeway. Visit our official FilmFreeway page to submit your film, review guidelines, and check deadlines. Once our official website is launched, submission details will be updated accordingly.

1,000+ attendees enjoy our festival
to celebrate together.
Join us and make unforgettable memories.
Partners and references
Your support fuels innovation, fosters talent, and helps bring compelling stories to life.
Together, we are shaping the future of animation in Africa and beyond.

Contact Us
Office
48 Msikitini Street, Mikocheni B,
P.O. BOX 54631,
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania