Africa Film Fest 2026 Review - Nteregu
Images courtesy of the Africa Film Festival.
Nteregu (a story to be sung) is not your typical documentary, the film is a visual and sound poem that tells and sings the story of Guinea-Bissau's music. This is also what the word nteregu means. Through interviews, a variety of musical footage and a really thoughtfully layered soundscape, you hear the story in this film more than you see it. That’s what sets this documentary apart, and makes it a must-watch.
The film follows a linear timeline, chronicling the music of Guinea-Bissau throughout history, starting with the music played within communities. This includes the culture of the Mandjuandadi, the tabancas of the griots, and the impressive Tina, a traditional Guinean drum which was used as a work utensil by women doing the laundry and other jobs. It developed a secondary use as a percussive instrument as women worked and sang together. Now the Tina has made it onto stages all around the world.
It also covers the long-standing effects of Portuguese colonisation, as well as the liberation movement which led to the country’s independence in the 1970s. The film doesn’t shy away from the people’s struggles through history, including the armed struggle for liberation and the issues of cultural degradation in small communities. It also highlights new Bissau-Guinean artists with international careers who pay homage to traditions of their motherland rather than following modern trends.
While music has always been embedded in the culture of the Bissau-Guineans, until recently, the music commonly played at large events was from other countries such as the Congo, Angola and Cape Verde. In fact, it was the formation of modern Bissau-Guinean music groups like Mama Djambo and Kapa Negra that inspired anti-colonialist and liberation movements. The film not only highlights the beauty of the country’s music, but also its importance in educating and inspiring people to freedom. Guinea-Bissau’s music is revolutionary.
Before watching this film, I knew very little about this small nation. I was drawn to the film out of curiosity, and driven by my love for folklore and traditional music. Nteregu has given me an understanding of the diverse music of the country, and how it has been shaped by its history, community life, colonisation and the people’s struggle for independence. Through lyricism and collaborations, their music has played an active role in inspiring action, in turn leading to important moments in the history of the country and a sense of optimism about the future.
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Nteregu screened as part of the 2026 Africa Film Fest. For more info, click here.