Malian film director Souleymane Cissé, one of the pioneers of African cinema, has died aged 84. His daughter, Mariam Cissé, confirmed his death at a clinic in the capital Bamako, expressing shock and mourning "the loss of a man who dedicated his life to film and art". The cause of his death has not been announced.

He won multiple awards during his 50-year career, including the jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival, and spent his life championing African cinema.

Malian director Souleymane Cissé, the African cinema pioneer who over five decades gained prominence for works infused with deep humanism and political engagement, died on Wednesday. He was 84. News of Cissé’s death was announced by his daughter,