Disney announces landmark African collaboration
Walt Disney animation studios has announced details on ‘Iwájú’ series, its first of its kind collaboration with African comic book entertainment company, Kugali. The animated series is set to premiere on Disney in 2022.
Disney, in a statement released at the ongoing Annecy International Animation Film Festival, confirmed that production has commenced with talents working remotely from Nigeria, Uganda, London, Montreal and Burbank.
Although details of the series remain under wraps, Kugali co-founder and series director Ziki Nelson revealed that ‘Iwájú’ will share themes of inequality and class divide.
“That’s the everyday reality of life in Nigeria and other parts of the world, and [themes include] the consequences they have on a society and challenging the status quo.”
Speaking about the forthcoming series, one of the-founders of Kigali, Ziki Nelson shared that
“This show will combine Disney’s magic and animation expertise with Kugali’s fire and storytelling authenticity, Iwaju represents a personal childhood dream of mine to tell my story and that of my people.’’
Set in futuristic Lagos, Kugali co-founder, Tolu Olowofoyeku noted the team’s choice of the commercial city, highlighting how its “unique and distinct feel” provided an interesting base for the story.
Kugali was founded by three Nigerian comics artist, Tolu Olowofoyeku, Ziki Nelson and Hamid Ibrahim.
Hentrietta Peter
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