far from the nile

12 Musicians from 7 African Nations Tour America’s Heartland

Twelve African musicians from seven countries along the Nile River join forces to collaborate across culture, language, and tradition — embarking on a 100-day tour through America’s heartland to raise awareness of Africa’s growing water crisis. Far From the Nile is the latest documentary from Egyptian-American filmmaker Sherief Elkatsha.

The Nile — a “thin blue vein of geographical fate” — has shaped civilizations since the beginning of time. Today it sustains more than 450 million people across eleven nations, a population projected to double within 25 years, intensifying pressure on an already fragile ecosystem.

Elkatsha follows the musicians from Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Burundi, and Uganda as they journey together across the U.S. The film captures both the tensions and triumphs of forging unity across borders — navigating cultural difference, musical style, and individual ambition while striving to remain united in their shared cause.

Artist statement

Far From the Nile embodies what we seek at the american vicarious: art that crosses boundaries, resists easy answers, and insists on dialogue. Egyptian-American filmmaker Sherief Elkatsha follows twelve musicians from seven African nations who share the Nile River yet bring vastly different languages, cultures, and traditions. As they journey through America’s heartland, their music becomes both a bridge and a battleground — a living rehearsal for collaboration across difference.

The story of the Nile is one of interdependence, scarcity, and survival — themes that resonate far beyond Africa. By situating these artists in the United States, Far From the Nile reveals how global crises of water, migration, and identity are entangled with our own.

For us, producing Far From the Nile is not just about a film but about fostering conversation. It asks: How do we find harmony amid difference? And how might we, as Americans, recognize ourselves in struggles that seem far from our own?

Press Quotes

• “A world-changing documentary… A must-watch for any and all, providing a road map for finding the way to bring together our ultra-divided, hyper-chaotic world.” - MIME

• “A wholly entertaining and often uplifting documentary… The project is about finding common ground above all else, and watching the results flow is exhilarating.” - Screen Daily

• "Finding common cause and rhythm across language and culture is at the heart." - Variety

• "Far From the Nile has broad appeal thanks to high octane personalities, joyful sounds, and the always amusing opportunity to see people trying to figure out American mores and privileges." - Film Verdict