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  • Violence in African Comics

    Violence in African Comics

    It should be clear by now that wondering if there is violence in comics is like wondering if superheroes ever punch villains. Comics are about storytelling, and whoever says storytelling says conflict. Conflict is an essential ingredient for great storytelling. Without conflict, it is difficult or even impossible to enjoy a story. This is because stories usually invite us to go on a journey with a character and witness how he or she succeeds in overcoming,  or succumbing to conflict. And conflict can be depicted in so many ways. Fighting, crying, silence and even laughter can be used to depict conflict.

    In comics, like any other storytelling medium, conflict plays a central role in engaging readers. Amongst the different ways in which conflict is depicted in comics, violence is certainly the most used. Remember those memorable fights between Batman and Joker, Spider-man and Green Goblin, Rick Grimes and hordes of zombies? Yes, they were epic. But guess what? Those fights were laden with violence that is sometimes not appropriate for younger audiences. However, that does not end there. Those curses in the Saga comic book series and the domestic violence depicted in several slice of life titles are all forms of violence. It is so present in modern day literature as a whole that it is practically impossible to read through anything without seeing some violence somewhere.

    So, the question one will certainly ask in the face of this status quo is; why are comic book creators and publishers so interested in violence?

    mancraft african comics on the zebra comics blog

    Well, as already insinuated above, violence has been used many times to illustrate conflict. In a war between two or more peoples, just like in The Witcher comics, there aren’t a multitude of ways to show how much these people hate each other than through physical violence. The same can be said for any comic book genre (sci-fi, fantasy, slice of life, romance etc). The violence may be physical (like what we see in all Marvel and DC, Japanese and Franco Belgian comics and/or manga), emotional or domestic, but it is always there. Also, many comics are known for their thrilling action sequences and larger-than-life battles between good and evil which make for great entertainment. Violence, therefore, can be highly entertaining.

    The real issue here is how much violence creators and publishers expose their readers to. If we had to organize an award for the most violent comics in the world today, titles like Crossed, Berserk, The Walking Dead, Kick-Ass, The Laughing Vampire, God is dead, Punisher Max, Fetus Collection, Sin City, Judge Dredd, The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service, Evil Ernie Vs Superheroes, Spawn, Homunculus and Invincible will certainly go home with the highest number of awards. These titles clearly take the violence game in comics a little too far and so younger audiences should clearly ignore these if they ever come across them.

    Wrong Dial African comics on the zebra comics blog
    Wrong Dial action African comics on the zebra comics blog

    Let’s be fair, many comic book publishers take great care to ensure the safety of their readers by limiting how much graphic content they allow in each issue. For example, most mainstream superhero titles contain minimal amounts of blood or gore with no explicit language or nudity included at all. In addition to this self-regulation from within the industry, parents can also help protect children by monitoring what comics they read and ensuring appropriate age restrictions are followed when purchasing material online or at local stores. So, yes, there is violence in those books with pictures and speech bubbles but anyone can be spared any of that if they follow the restrictive signs already put in place by publishers and book store owners.

    In African comics, the use of violence is very present. Just like in the productions of their Western and Eastern counterparts, African comics creators have utilized violence to develop plot and to create highly entertaining products. Also, when one looks at the African continent today, there is no shortage of inspiration when it comes to violence. The different armed conflicts and even domestic conflicts on the continent today are fertile grounds from where to draw inspiration. Good examples can be seen in the African comics titles, Moi, Antibalaka, Le cauchemar d’Obi, T’zee, Barikisu and Wrong Dial. These African comics treat violence which is smeared deeply in politics, painting an accurate picture of what usually transpires on the African continent. At the same time, there are African comics which use violence as a tool for good. Most superhero comics, crime comics and even slice of life comics depict violence, but this violence is used solely for the purposes of bringing evil forces to book. Good examples here include Anaki, Jemiro, Guardian Prime Genesis, Boxsa, Lake of Tears, Jember, Kwezi, Strike Guard, Retrograde and Kush.

    Kush 1 african comics on the zebra comics blog
    Kush African comics on the Zebra comics blog

    The good thing, as far as African comics are concerned, is that the use of violence hasn’t yet gotten to nefarious extents. Violence in African comics is generally just a device used to tell beautiful stories and to criticize the not-so-good things that happen around us. It is mild and is mostly used to entertain audiences. This is particularly applaudable, given that a great majority of comic book readers are kids and young adults whose minds are not yet ready to consume content which is violent or explicit in nature.

    At its core, comic books provide a safe space where fans can explore different aspects of human nature without actually experiencing them firsthand – including acts such as violence which exist both inside and outside our fictional universes alike. This violence, if not properly portrayed, can be damaging to anyone. However, the good news is that as long as we continue to monitor what we consume responsibly, there should be absolutely nothing to fear when enjoying this unique artform.

  • What Is It Like To Work For An African Comic Book Company? An Interview With Achidi Ajaga

    What Is It Like To Work For An African Comic Book Company? An Interview With Achidi Ajaga

    Go to the streets of any city in Africa and ask random people in what industries they will like to pursue a career. I bet you, not many of them will mention a desire to work for a comic book production company. This is not necessarily because comic book publishing companies do not exist in Africa or that it is impossible to pursue a fulfilling and successful career in this sector. The real issue actually finds its root in the fact that there aren’t many of such companies in Africa and how they function is mostly obscure business.

    In this article, we seek to demystify the sector by throwing some light on the daily activities of someone who works in the sector, so as to show that it is a vibrant sector and anybody can pursue a successful career here if they really want to.

    Below is therefore a discussion we had with Achidi Ajaga, colourist at Zebra Comics PLC, on what it means to work for a comic book creation and publishing company like Zebra Comics PLC. Enjoy!

    Zebra Comics Blog: Hello, Achidi. Thank you for accepting to talk with us and share your experiences working for a comic book company. Now, the first thing we would like to know is; Who is Achidi Ajaga?

    Achidi Ajaga: Thank you very much. Achidi Ajaga is a colourist at Zebra Comics PLC and holder of an Msc in Medical Physics from the University of Buea, Cameroon.

    Zebra Comics Blog: How did you get into comics?

    Achidi Ajaga: Actually, my dive into comics was certified at Zebra Comics PLC. However, long before I understood what comics meant and was all about,I had already started drawing. As early as my infant years, I had already fallen in love with drawing and illustration and I could always be seen drawing in my exercise books at home and in school. With time, my interest and skills in drawing grew and I ultimately became a comic book colourist at Zebra Comics PLC.

    Zebra Comics Blog: How did you know about Zebra Comics PLC?

    Achidi Ajaga: Well, I actually got to know about Zebra Comics PLC from another artist who is a close friend. This was around the time when Zebra Comics launched a recruitment for an artist to work in their creative studio. When I saw the opportunity, I was amazed that in Cameroon,  there exist creative companies that deal in something I was passionate about. I therefore applied for a position at the company and here we are today.

    Zebra Comics Blog: What is your role at Zebra Comics PLC?

    Achidi Ajaga: At Zebra Comics PLC, I work as a colourist. My everyday job is to bring the illustrations done by the penciller and inker to life. I decide on colours that work well with the story and make them pop for every reader. I ensure that the colours bring out the mood that the story should have and thereby assure enjoyability for the consumer.

    Zebra Comics Blog: What does your working day at Zebra Comics PLC look like?

    Achidi Ajaga: A normal day of work at Zebra Comics consists of daily tasks. To ensure that all staff members, I included, are productive, tasks are given and follow up is implemented to make sure that these tasks are accomplished. So, everyday, I am called upon to colour or ink a certain number of pages. I make sure that I do these tasks everyday so as to achieve an objective that will take the company forward.

    Zebra Comics Blog: Over all, how does it feel working for a comic book company in Cameroon? How do your family, friends and loved ones view this?

    Achidi Ajaga: I will say working at Zebra Comics PLC is fulfilling. I use the word fulfilling because not everyone has the opportunity or privilege to enjoy what they do as work. When you enjoy your daily work, it usually doesn’t feel like work. So, creating these stories, bringing them to life and the general environment just makes creativity flow seamlessly and provides for a magical environment where you can work without feeling like it is work. This magical environment is also appreciated by my friends who are so excited because I work for one of the few or only comic book publishing companies that recruit on a full time basis in Africa. We all know of Marvel and DC comics in the United States, but there wasn’t any competitor in Africa until recently. And for the icing on the cake, my parents always knew that I am a creative person who loved to draw, and so they are very happy that I am able to pursue a career in something that I actually love to do. It is amazing!

    Zebra Comics Blog: Any advice for young people who wish to work with a comics book company like Zebra Comics PLC?

    Achidi Ajaga: My advice to anybody who is willing to pursue a career in a comic book company like Zebra Comics PLC is that they should know that it is very possible. The possibilities for any artist to pursue a career in this sector are huge nowadays. They just need to grow in their craft, keep on getting better and always put their work out there for people to see. They do not necessarily need to know too much from the get go, they just need to put their work out there for the world to see. Also, be willing and be ready to learn, because that is the only way you will grow as an artist. This is a sector where innovation is as common as the air we breathe, so you need to always be ready to learn new things.

    Achidi Ajaga is an artist who has worked on several comic book hits from Zebra Comics like Kawana, Wrong Dial and Khadija. You can follow him on instagram.

  • Sports Comics from Africa

    Sports Comics from Africa

    In the world of entertainment, sports occupy a position that few other domains can even dream of occupying. From football (soccer), to basketball, passing through tennis and cycling, professional sports continue to sustain a lot of attention from fans across the world. This is particularly the case because sports are very entertaining and they keep viewers glued whenever they are staged. Sports therefore constitute an interesting place to draw inspiration from when it comes to creating comics.

    When the theme of sports is thrown on the table when comics are discussed, there are usually some key names that come to mind. Without question, Japanese manga and Franco Belgian comics constitute the majority of sports comics publications out there. IPs like Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, Blue Lock, Eyeshield 21, Diamond No Ace, Hajime No Ippo, Haikyuu, Real, Ashita No Joe, Aoashi, Asterix Et Obelix Aux Jeux Olympiques, Les Schtroumpfs Olympiques, Le Sommet Des Dieux, Thorgal: Les Archers and Ping Pong have been wonderful creations, enriching the sports comics catalogue from Japan and Europe.

    This, however, does not mean that American comics have nothing to show as far as sports comics are concerned. American creators may not be very keen on creating sports comics as much as their Japanese and Franco-Belgian counterparts do, but they still spew publications that are revered across the globe. Some notable American sports comics include: Golem’s Mighty Swing, Check, Please!, Fantasy Sports, Big Nate: Game On, Dragon Hoops, Sports Is Hell, Michael Jordan: Bull On Parade, Cheer Up: Love And Pompoms and Spinning.

    As far as webcomics or webtoons are concerned, there is a litany of sports comics available online. The genre has evolved to include fantasy depictions of popular sport, thrilling fans of the genre across the globe. Some notable mentions include: Tweener, Build Up, Latent Blue, Attaque, Is This The Korean Wrestling Club?, Fist Of Legend, Into The Net, Green Boy, Backcourt, Wind Breaker and The Boxer.

    From the above, it is clear that sports constitute a central theme in comics from across the world. From American comics, to Japanese Manga, passing through Franco-Belgian Comics and Webtoons, there are a plethora of sports comics to enjoy online.

    Now, since this article is based on sports comics from Africa, the question that one will normally ask is: are there sports comics from Africa?

    The answer is a resounding Yes. There are indeed sports comics created by comics creators from Africa. The issue, however, is that the number of creations, compared to those mentioned above, is still very low. African creators seem to focus on other themes like politics, war and romance more than they do with sports. Nevertheless, there exist sports comics from Africa. The following are notable examples you can check out.

    Khadija-cover-African-comics-on-the-zebra-comics-blog

    She wants to become a professional footballer, but her community frowns upon it. Khadija Mahamat will have to defy faith and tradition, in order to rise to the highest heights of football.

    Her journey takes her down the path of a religious and cultural dilemma. Wading through the murky waters of the game, and the halals and harams of her faith, she strives to sign her name in the annals of football. Khadija is an exciting comic which blends sports, religion and tradition to create an exciting piece. It was created by Njoka Suyru and is available on the Zebra Comics App and website.

     

    Samuel-Etoo-fils-Naissance-dun-Champion-African-comics-on-the-zebra-comics-blog

    This comic tells the incredible story of a kid from New Bell, a working-class neighbourhood in Douala, Cameroon, who became one of the best footballers in the world. Samuel is a quiet, well-behaved and obedient little boy, except for one thing, his dream, his passion, his ambition: football. He is interested in nothing but playing inter-quarter matches. He has built up a solid reputation, so much so that he is nicknamed “Petit Milla” after the famous Cameroonian footballer Roger Milla. But his parents don’t want to hear about it, because they consider that he is wasting his time playing football. This comic was published by Dagan Editions.

     

    Les-lions-indomptables-African-comics-on-the-zebra-comics-blog

    This graphic novel revisits the exploits of the indomitable lions of Cameroon (Cameroon’s national football team) at the different FIFA World Cups where they were a participant between 1982 to 2010. This collection is very peculiar in the fact that it focuses on the goals that the team scored during the 1982, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2010 FIFA World Cups. Depicting these goals in comic book format makes it even more enjoyable as Ezzat El Dine’s art brings these goals to life in ways that other formats cannot. This comic is published by Editions Akoma Mba.

    Supa-Strikas-African-comics-on-the-zebra-comics-blog

    Supa Strikas is a pan-African association football-themed comic, about the titular football team dubbed “the world’s greatest.” Despite their enormous talent, the players must adapt in a game where being the best is only the beginning and where the opposition is always full of surprises. The Supa Strikas comic prints 1.4 million copies per month in 16 countries making it one of the most popular sports comics in the world.  Supa Strikas was founded by Andrew Smith, Oliver Power, Lee Hartman, and Alex Kramer. The comic series was first published in South Africa in 2000. It has also been adapted into a very successful TV show and its characters have been developed into other merchandise. As of 2019, the franchise is currently owned by Moonbug Entertainment.

    Sports comics, like their other counterparts, are very popular across the world. Japanese, Franco-Belgian and American comics take the lead in this niche market which is growing by the day. However, new frontiers like webcomics and webtoons are also showing off great sports comics to readers from across the world. In all these, African creators have also created comics that are gaining interest on the market. The only issue here is that the number of publications of African sports comics are too few. This is however curious, given the fact that there is a huge interest in sports on the mother continent. So, this may be a call on African creators to step up their game and produce more sports comics which clearly have a market.

  • How African Comics Reinvent Comic Book Tropes

    How African Comics Reinvent Comic Book Tropes

    Introduction

    Comic books are a popular form of entertainment that have been around for decades. They feature stories of heroes and villains, action and adventure, fantasy and science fiction. Comic books also rely on certain tropes, which are recurring themes, motifs, or clichés that readers can easily recognize and relate to. Some examples of comic book tropes are origin stories, secret identities, costumes, sidekicks, archenemies, death and resurrection, retcons, etc. While comic book tropes can be useful tools to create engaging and familiar stories, they can also become clichés, stereotypes, or limitations that hinder creativity. That’s why some comic book creators try to subvert, deconstruct, or reinvent these tropes to offer new perspectives and possibilities for their stories and characters.

    However, comic book tropes are not universal. Different cultures and regions may have different ways of interpreting and expressing them. One of the most interesting and innovative examples of comic book creators who challenge and transform common comic book tropes are African comics. African comics are comics made by African artists for Africans and the rest of the world, to better reflect the experiences, struggles, and cultures of the many African countries without influence from the West.

    What are Comic Book Tropes?

    Comic book tropes are elements that are commonly found in comic books across genres and styles. They can be characters, settings, plots, themes, or devices that help create a sense of familiarity and continuity for the readers. Comic book tropes can also reflect the values, beliefs, and aspirations of the society and culture that produce them. African comics are a diverse and growing category of comics that originate from the continent of Africa. They are created by African artists who draw inspiration from their own experiences, histories, cultures, and languages. African comics aim to challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround Africa and its people in mainstream media. They also seek to celebrate the diversity and richness of African cultures and stories.

    How do African Comics Reinvent Them?

    1. The Superhero: African comic books feature superheroes who are inspired by African mythology, folklore, history and culture. For example, E.X.O. The Legend of Wale Williams is a sci-fi superhero story set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria, where Wale Williams inherits a nanosuit from his father and becomes E.X.O., a protector of the city. E.X.O. draws on Nigerian traditions, politics and slang to create a unique and authentic superhero. Another example is Kwezi, a South African comic about a teenage boy who discovers he has superpowers and must balance his ego and responsibilities as a hero. Kwezi explores themes of identity, heritage and belonging in contemporary South Africa, as well as the role of social media and celebrity culture in shaping public perception

    2. The origin story: African comic books often subvert the typical origin story trope by showing how the characters’ powers are not always a blessing or a source of empowerment, but rather a curse or a burden that comes with consequences and sacrifices. For example, Malika: Warrior Queen, a historical fantasy comic set in 15th century West Africa, where Malika inherits the crown and the power of her ancestors after her father’s death. However, Malika faces opposition from her brother who wants to usurp her throne, as well as from foreign invaders who seek to exploit her land and people.

    3. The sidekick: African comic books often challenge the notion of the sidekick as a subordinate or inferior character by showing how they are equal or superior partners to the superheroes. For example, Lake of Tears is a comic that tackles the issue of child trafficking and slavery in Lake Volta. The main characters are Kwame and Kofi, two brothers who escape from their captors and join forces with Yao, a girl with mystical powers who can control water. Yao is not a sidekick to Kwame and Kofi, but rather their leader and mentor who teaches them how to survive and fight back against their oppressors.

    4. The villain: African comic books often present villains who are not just evil or crazy, but rather complex and realistic characters who have motives and backgrounds that relate to the social and political issues of Africa. For example, Khadija is a Cameroonian digital comic that tells the story of a young girl who wants to become a professional footballer but has to face the restrictions imposed on her by her religious background and culture. Khadija is hindered by her father and relatives, but she also develops a friendship with a mentor who helps  Khadija pursue her dream. The ‘villain’ in this story is embodied by her culture, religious beliefs and relatives, which are not just downright evil entities.

    5. The secret identity: African comic books often challenge the idea of the secret identity as a necessity or a benefit for the superheroes by showing how it can be a source of conflict or danger for them and their loved ones. For example, Razor-Man is a Zimbabwean comic about Takura, a young man who becomes a vigilante after his father is killed by a gang. Takura uses his razor-sharp blades to fight crime, but he also struggles to keep his identity secret from his mother and his girlfriend, who disapprove of his actions and worry about his safety. Takura also faces the risk of being exposed by the media and the police, who are hunting him down. Another example is Avonome, a Nigerian comic about Hilda Avonomemi Moses, a girl who can see spirits and other supernatural beings. Hilda uses her abilities to help the spirits find peace, but she also has to hide them from her family and society, who consider her a freak or a witch. Hilda also has to deal with the dangers of the spirit world, where she encounters enemies and allies who have their own agendas.

    6. The team-up: African comic books often celebrate the idea of the team-up as a way of showcasing the diversity and unity of Africa, as well as the potential for collaboration and cooperation among different heroes and cultures. For example, Newborn Saga, is an Ethiopian comic that follows the adventures of four young heroes who are chosen by an ancient prophecy to save their world from an evil force. Newborn Saga draws on Ethiopian mythology, history and culture to create a rich and diverse fantasy world, where the heroes encounter various creatures, races and factions.

    Conclusion

    African comics are not a monolithic category, but rather a diverse and dynamic field of creative expression that reflects the cultural, historical and social realities of the continent and its diaspora. African comics draw inspiration from various sources, such as folklore, mythology, history, politics, religion, science fiction, fantasy and more. African comics also use different styles, formats and languages to convey their stories and messages. African comics feature superheroes who are not only powerful but also culturally relevant and relatable. They often have powers that are derived from African traditions, such as magic, spirituality or ancestral connections. They also have identities and backgrounds that reflect the diversity and complexity of African experiences, such as ethnicity, nationality, religion and culture. African comics do not simply copy or imitate Western comic book tropes, but rather reinvent them in ways that suit their own contexts and purposes.

    If you are new to African comics or wish to discover more African comics, start here.

  • Upcoming Comic Book-Inspired Movies in 2023: What to Expect

    Upcoming Comic Book-Inspired Movies in 2023: What to Expect

    Are you a fan of comic book movies? If so, get ready for an exciting year ahead! 2023 promises to be a year packed with action-packed movies inspired by some of our favourite comic book heroes and villains. From iconic characters like Aquaman and Spider-Man to lesser-known characters like Kraven and Blue Beetle, there’s something for everyone to look forward to. In this article, we’ll give you a sneak peek into what you can expect from these upcoming comic book-inspired movies in 2023. Get ready to mark your calendars!

    1. The Flash – June 2, 2023

    The Flash

    Fans of DC Comics character The Flash have been eagerly waiting for this movie for years, and it’s finally set to hit theatres on June 2, 2023. The film, directed by Andy Muschietti, who’s well-known for his work on horror movies It and It Chapter Two, stars Ezra Miller as Barry Allen, aka The Flash. The movie also features Kiersey Clemons as Iris West and Michael Keaton as Batman.

    2. Aquaman 2 – December 22, 2023

    Aquaman 2

    Jason Momoa will be returning as Arthur Curry, aka Aquaman, in the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 Aquaman movie. Aquaman 2, directed by James Wan, is set to release on December 22, 2023. The movie will see Aquaman facing a new threat, and will also feature the return of several characters from the first movie, including Amber Heard as Mera and Patrick Wilson as Ocean Master.

    3. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 – May 5, 2023

    7. Kraven the Hunter – October 6th, 2023

    Marvel fans are anxiously anticipating the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, which is set to hit theatres on May 5, 2023. The movie, directed by James Gunn, will see the return of Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, as they embark on another intergalactic adventure. The film is also set to introduce several new characters, including Adam Warlock, played by Will Poulter.

    4. Blue Beetle – August 18, 2023

    Blue Beetle

    Blue Beetle, a lesser-known DC Comics character, will become more popular with the release of this movie on August 18, 2023. The movie will feature Xolo Maridueña as Jaime Reyes, a teenager who discovers a powerful alien artefact that grants him incredible powers. Angel Manuel Soto directs the movie, which promises to be an exciting addition to the DC Extended Universe.

    5. The Marvels – November 10, 2023

    The Marvels on the Zebra Comics Blog

    The Marvels is a highly anticipated movie that will see the return of Brie Larson as Carol Danvers, aka Captain Marvel. The film will also introduce several new characters, including Ms. Marvel, played by Iman Vellani, and Monica Rambeau, played by Teyonah Parris. Nia DaCosta directs the movie, which is set to be released on November 10, 2023.

    6. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse – June 2, 2023

    Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

    Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is another comic book-inspired movie to be released in 2023. It is the sequel to the 2018 film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which received widespread critical acclaim for its unique animation style and captivating storyline. The film follows the adventures of Miles Morales, who is now a more experienced Spider-Man, as he encounters other Spider-People from different dimensions. The movie features the return of Shameik Moore as the voice of Miles Morales and also introduces new characters such as Spider-Woman and Spider-Man 2099.

    7. Kraven the Hunter – October 6th, 2023

    Kraven the Hunter

    Kraven the Hunter is a highly anticipated movie for Marvel fans, as it brings a new character to the big screen. The film follows the storyline of Kraven the Hunter, who is a notorious Spider-Man villain. Kraven is a big-game hunter who travels to New York City to hunt down the web-slinger, Spider-Man. The movie will star Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Kraven and will be directed by J.C. Chandor.

    The film is based on the comic book series “Kraven’s Last Hunt,” which is considered one of the greatest Spider-Man stories ever written. The story is a dark, psychological tale that explores the relationship between Kraven and Spider-Man. Kraven believes that he is the only one who can truly understand Spider-Man and wants to prove it by defeating him in a hunt. The story is intense and emotional, and it will be interesting to see how the movie will adapt it.

    Overall, 2023 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for comic book-inspired movies. With so many highly anticipated films on the horizon, fans of the genre have a lot to look forward to. From the return of beloved characters like Aquaman and the Guardians of the Galaxy to the introduction of new heroes like Blue Beetle and The Marvels, there’s something for everyone. And with the growing popularity of digital comics platforms like Webtoon, Zebra Comics, Mangatoon, and many others, there has never been a better time to be a fan of the genre. So mark your calendars and get ready for an action-packed year at the movies.

  • The Latest African Comic Releases So Far (2023)

    The Latest African Comic Releases So Far (2023)

    Talk to any business owner, read any book on business or attend any lectures on building an industry and you will get this from all of them: consistency is a key ingredient for any business to thrive. When a company identifies a need and provides a solution, this solution has to be consistently delivered so that the market keeps consuming the company’s products and the company generates the resources to stay alive. Consistency is therefore a factor of business that is very important. Unfortunately, maintaining consistency has just been the main problem for many industries in Africa, and one of such industries is the comic book industry. Even though there is a vibrant presence of comic book creators online, the number of comics published in Africa remains considerably low. Today, it is easy to find African comic book creators promoting excerpts of comic book projects online. However these comics take so much time to be published or they do not even see the light of day. With this, therefore, it is important to encourage comics creators to work harder and make sure that they are producing and publishing their works in a more consistent way, because consistency helps build industry. In the face of all this inconsistency in production and publishing, however, there are creators and/or publishers who are working hard and doing things differently to make sure that the problem of consistency remains in the past. These actors have published several comics ever since the year 2023 began and they have remained consistent both in the quantity and quality of comics that they put on the market. The following is therefore a presentation of some of the comics that have been published in print or digital format between January and April 2023.

    City Blues African comics on the zebra comics blog

    In the first season of CITY BLUES, experience the story of Malika, a university student who, despite all the distractions that university students are exposed to, decides to stick to her values of honesty and loyalty. She is a devout lover who stays in her lane and perseveres despite all the temptations that surround her. Then, something happens which pushes her to the edge of compromise so much that she fears she will stain a reputation that she has fought so hard to protect. CITY BLUES was released in early 2023 and there are several episodes available to devour on the Zebra Comics App and Website. Many more episodes are coming this 2023.

    galactic core african comics on the zebra comics blog

    In this comic, humanity has spread amongst the stars, finding new worlds, new friends, and a new frontier. But also, new enemies. In the aftermath of the Great Galactic War, thousands of civilizations, human and alien alike, were left decimated. Chaos reigns in the galaxy. So far, as of the publication date of this article, there are five episodes available with the next episode coming in April 2023. You can enjoy this digital comic on the Comic Republic Website.

    Jemiro African comics on the zebra comics blog

    One million years before our time, there existed a planet called WONGAN. The beings who inhabited this planet looked like humans, except that they were a million times more technologically advanced than we are today. All was well on this technologically advanced world until imminent destruction stood in its way: the planet was going to be sucked up by its own sun. Deaconess Tomaino (the planet’s ruler) and her team of scientists knew that destruction was on its way, but they did not know that it would come too soon. The only way to save their kind was to send off two survivors to a new world they called JEMIRO, or what we call EARTH. This decision, however, was frowned upon by others who swore that they deserved to be saved too. And so all hell broke loose. JEMIRO was released in February 2023 and there are a ton of episodes already available to enjoy on the Zebra Comics App and Website. More episodes will be released on a weekly basis.

    Assegai african comics on the zebra comics blog

    Assegai tells the story of a young girl who is dealing with the loss of both parents and who struggles through life in unconventional circumstances. Living in a war-ravaged town, she plays by near impossible rules of survival while under the care of her only living relative. Now, a looming invasion threatens her life and the lives of the other citizens in this war-torn city. Is this the end of life as they know it? New episodes of this comic were released in early 2023 and many more episodes are scheduled for the rest of the year. It is published by Comic Republic.

    djarabane african comics on the zebra comics blog

    This story takes place in Sarh, in 1984. Seven-year-old Kandji marvels at a painting on the living room wall. Dazzled by the scene and the colours of the landscape, he makes a promise to himself to become a painter at a time when Chad is going through one of the most violent periods in its history. Djarabane, “What to do” in Sara, is a reflection on exile and the place of children’s dreams in a precarious political context. This beautiful comic by Chadian comic book author Adjim Danngar was published by Editions Delcourt.

    Deep in the equatorial forest, in the palace of T’Zée, a rumour swells. The old dictator has been killed. As the country sinks into the chaos of a civil war, the members of the presidential clan live the last moments of a corrupt regime that is disappearing. The destiny of Hippolyte, son of T’Zee, crosses one last time with that of Bobbi, the young wife of the missing dictator: an impossible and monstrous love is revealed. In the heat of the African night, this is the twilight of an imaginary country, masterfully told by Appollo and Brüno. This beautiful graphic novel was published in early 2023 by Editions Dargaud.

    Njoku African comics on the zebra comics blog

    On Mount Fako, somewhere in Buea, Cameroon, Efasa-Moto, the mountain God, rules. He is lord over the sugar cane plantations and elephants that flourish on these slopes. Humans can enjoy the sugar cane and the beauty of the mountain as much as they want. However, they are forbidden from venturing into areas which are reserved for the gods. Unfortunately, Axel Takam and his friends, hungry for adventure and oblivious of these rules, take a trip up the mountain without authorization from competent authorities and end up desecrating the holy lands reserved for the gods. The consequence; Alex Takam is obliged to choose between doing the bidding of the gods for mankind or saving himself and letting mankind perish. The eleventh episode of this Afrojujuism and fantasy title was released in March 2023 and more episodes are coming to the Zebra Comics App and Website.

    Ndoli African comics on the zebra comics blog

    In Ndoli, old friends reunite and a kingdom is threatened by one child. It is a comic that is heavy on culture, myth and action. The writing is clever, the story is interesting and the art shines in every way. New episodes of Ndoli were released in early 2023. Many more episodes are expected to hit the Comic Republic app and website in the days ahead. This is a great read.

    IKEI lives the life of a billionaire kid: chic apartment, celebrity boyfriend, loaded bank account and free cruises to exotic places. Curiously, she is doing all these while grappling with unvalidated courses at the University. The question now is: who sponsors this kind of lifestyle? Well, many think her numerous dates finance her escapades. No! She comes from a wealthy family that can afford anything she may desire. So why does she choose this questionable path? The answer lies in a deeply dysfunctional family. The complete first season of Kawana was released in March 2023 on the Zebra Comics App and Website. It is a must read story that packs romance, family relation and all that is contemporary life in Cameroon.

    So, there you have it. These are some of the most prominent African comics that have been released this year and we are certain that you will be seeing more from these publishers in the course of the year. Also, we are aware that this list might not be exhaustive, so this is a first in a series which will bring you regular updates on African comics releases. To make sure you do not miss out on these updates, subscribe to our newsletter and continue to follow us on all social media platforms.

  • Female Creators in African Comics

    Female Creators in African Comics

    For a very long time, comic books have been seen as things for boys and young men. This was probably due to the fact that comics had always been likened to the “boyish” stuff: superheroes, fight scenes and guns. This has been true for American comics, Franco Belgian comics and Japanese manga. This trend was and is still being witnessed in almost all African countries where the majority of those who consume comics are young men. This is not to say that there aren’t any girls who love comic books that are filled with flying men, extraterrestrial explosions and devastating punches. Things have evolved and more girls are reading action and superhero comics. Added to that there are genres like slice of life and romance that have brought even more girls into the game, levelling a field that wasn’t flat.

    So, yes, girls from different parts of the world now read comics of different genres and in different formats. However, one cannot help but wonder if this interest in the consumption of comics is also witnessed in the creation of this artform.

    The number of female comic book creators (writers and artists) from across the world is growing tremendously. From American comics creators like Fiona Staples, passing through Franco Belgian damsels like Claire Bretécher, to female Japanese mangakas like Rumiko Takahashi, the number of women who do comics is growing rapidly. In a world where equality has become a trend, it is interesting to see that there are quite a good number of women who are succeeding as comics creators, in the same light as their male counterparts.

    In Africa, the situation is not very similar to the above. While there are many women who are excelling in this art, this sector is still heavily dominated by men. The African comic book industry is growing  and this growth will only soar with time, so it is quite questionable that despite this growth, women are not very interested in the trade. Some reasons for this status quo may be found in the environment, culture and shear personal preferences.

    Nevertheless, even though the number of women in African comics are not yet very significant, the few who are working hard to create and distribute content on the continent are doing a phenomenal job.

    Below, therefore, is a list of women who are contributing to the growth of African comics in a very significant way.

    Marguerite Abouet African comics author on the zebra comics blog

    Born in Abidjan to Ivorian parents, Marguerite Abouet is one of the most popular comic book creators from Africa. At the age of twelve, she was sent with her older brother to study in France under the care of a great uncle. She currently lives in Romainville, a suburb of Paris, with her husband, illustrator Clément Oubrerie (who illustrates her graphic concepts), and their young son. Her most prominent work is the graphic novel series, AYA OF YOP CITY. Aya tells the story of its 19-year old heroine, the studious and clear-sighted Aya; her easy-going friends Adjoua and Bintou; and their meddling relatives and neighbours. It’s a breezy and wryly funny account of the desire for joy and freedom, and of the simple pleasures and private troubles of everyday life in Yop City.

    An unpretentious and gently humorous story of an Africa we rarely see– spirited, hopeful and resilient. Aya won the 2006 award for Best First Album at the Angouleme International Comics Festival. Clement Oubrerie’s warm colours and energetic, playful line connect expressively with Marguerite Abouet’s vibrant writing.

    Elyons, also known as Joëlle Épée Mandengue is a Cameroonian comic book creator whose passion for comics is seen not only in her creative work, but in other platforms she created like the Bilili BD Festival and the Kubuni bandes dessinées d’Afrique(s) exposition. As far as comics and graphic novels are concerned, Elyons most successful work is “LA VIE D’EBENE DUTA”. This is a graphic novel which chronicles the daily life of a young black girl far from her country of origin. The story, scripted and drawn by Elyon’s, is delightful on several levels. There is no discourse on a fantasised Africa, nor is there yet another (re)visit of the clichés on immigration or all the misperceptions attached to black identity, making it a must read. As earlier mentioned, when Elyons is not creating comics, she is working on the very successful Bilili BD Festival, the Kubuni bandes dessinées d’Afrique(s) exposition or travelling around the world to attend other comic book festivals and promote African creations in the best ways possible.

    3. An Nina

    An Nina a female African comics author on the zebra comics blog - Copy

    An Nina, whose birth name is Appolonia Otam, is a Cameroonian writer whose work has contributed immensely to the growth of the Cameroonian and African comic book landscape. A founding member of Zebra Comics PLC, An Nina grew up reading a lot of comics and eventually developed not just a passion for comics but also a veritable skill for creating them. An Nina is the creator of the original comic book titled, ALIYA. It tells the story of a young woman (Aliya) who is a successful translator by day and the incarnation of a goddess by night. This duality in her personality makes her a very sought after person by elements of the dark and so she must fight to preserve herself and whatever the universe has set apart from her. When An Nina is not writing comics, she works as a translator. She has translated several comic book titles for Zebra Comics PLC from English to French, thereby making it possible for Francophone readers across the world to be able to enjoy African comics.

    reine dibussi african comics creator on the zebra comics blog

    Reine Dibussi was born in Yaoundé. She is a Cameroonian and French 2D illustrator, cartoonist and author of comics. Like Elyon’s, she is one of the few women working in the Cameroonian comic book industry. She spent her childhood in the capital city of Yaoundé in the Oyom-Abang neighbourhood and then in Ekié with her family. The last of four (04) girls, Reine and her sisters grew up surrounded by books, especially children’s literature and illustrated books. In this environment, she read a lot of comics and watched a lot of animated shows. This generated her passion for stories, art and illustrated narratives. With this background, she decided to develop her artistic skills after two years at the undergraduate level studying language and civilization. She therefore attended the Emile Cohl School in Lyon for five years, at the end of which she obtained a diploma in illustration design. Her most prominent work is the graphic novel series titled MULATAKO. Mulatako tells the story of Jéméa, a Jengu water spirit child who goes to Pamba, the initiation school and learns that she will have to repeat her class. At the same time, the High Council of Chiefs decides to exterminate the school’s students and teachers who have contracted a disease that turns them into mutants. Jéméa, her family and friends do not intend to let this happen. But since she is sick and powerless, she flees her world where she is threatened with death and finds herself in the less advanced world of humans. Mulatako (which means “Union”) is a four-part comic book series based on the myth of Mami-Wata. Still called Miengu in the beliefs of the large Sawa group in Cameroon, this myth is also common to many African and Afro Descendant peoples.

    Armandine Atangana african comics creator on the zebra comics blog

    Armandine Atangana is an artist and comic book creator who has been on the scene for a while now. From childhood, this lady who originates from the Centre Region of Cameroon has always loved art. She drew a lot and this quickly transformed into her desire to see her own creation come to life. To make this dream come true, she joined a group of artists called BlackTrek and with them, she honed her artistic skills and created a few comics. Later on, she worked with Kiro’o Games on the project Aurion Kajuta Gems Fighters. Her most prominent work today is a comic book titled, Tié Nneme.

    Beti Ophelie African Comics creator on the zebra comics blog

    Beti Ophelie is an artist who has great passion for comics and art in general. She is a Cameroonian whose love of comics was ignited when she read Franco Belgian comics (Blek, Zembla) made available by her mother. When she discovered these characters and worlds, she developed the desire to create her own characters and stories. With this, she began training herself in comic book illustration and art and this culminated in a job with Zebra Comics PLC. Beti Ophelie’s most notable work is found in KAWANA, a comic and webtoon series published by Zebra Comics PLC.

    Carine Umutoniwase African comics creator on the zebra comics blog

    Carine is from Kenya. She is an activist and a member of the youth organisation called Footprints for Change, which aims to transform Kenyan youth by exposing them to values, knowledge, and skills that promote an accountable society through innovative training in leadership for different enterprises. She’s the author of the ALEDNAM comic which spelt backwards is Mandela. Alednam seeks to bring out everyday living in our societies and the challenges we face and moreover highlight what we as young people can do. Talk about hope.

    Cassandra-Mark African comics creator on the zebra comics blog

    Cassandra Mark is an award-winning writer, comic book creator and anime enthusiast resident in Lagos, Nigeria. She is the author and creator of the hit comic TATASHE, published by Comic Republic. She is an Award-winning writer and Visual Development artist with over 5 years of experience specialising in comic book illustrations, character and world conceptualization, storyboarding and creative contention at local and global levels.She is also a hardcore gaming junkie who enjoys gardening, Yoga, and dabbles in African spirituality. Other comics related work she has done include HERO KEKERE, published by Comic Republic.

    Zainab Fasiki is a Moroccan graphic artist, activist for women’s rights and mechanical engineer by training. She became internationally known after 2019, following her graphic novel HSHOUMA, CORPS ET SEXUALITE AU MAROC which was translated from French into Moroccan Arabic, Spanish, Galician and Italian. Fasiki joined the comic book collective Skefkef, and in 2017 published a first feminist comic strip, called OMOR (Things), in which she explored the difficulties of a woman’s life in Morocco. Through the characters of three young Moroccan women, she denounced the social inequalities between men and women. Her work, which she publishes on social media and as graphic novels, criticises censorship, taboos and notions of shame in Morocco.

    Leïla Slimani African comics creator on the zebra comics blog

    Leila Slimani is the bestselling author of The Perfect Nanny, one of The New York Times Book Review’s 10 Best Books of 2018, for which she became the first Moroccan woman to win France’s most prestigious literary prize, the Goncourt. Her other books include Adèle, Sex and Lies, and the #1 international bestsellers In the Country of Others and Watch Us Dance, which are the first and second parts of a trilogy of novels based on her family’s roots in revolutionary Morocco. Slimani is French president Emmanuel Macron’s personal representative for the promotion of the French language and culture, and is the chair of the jury for the 2023 International Booker Prize. 

    Her most prominent work in comics is A MAINS NUES – 1900-1921, a biography of Suzanne Noël, a feminist committed to women’s suffrage and a pioneer of reconstructive surgery. She operated on many soldiers disfigured by shells during the First World War alongside Professor Hippolyte Morestin. Both of them developed revolutionary surgical protocols to restore dignity to broken heads.

    And here comes the best! Nnedimma Nkemdili “Nnedi” Okorafor (formerly Okorafor-Mbachu) is a Nigerian-American writer of science fiction and fantasy for both children and adults. She is best known for her Binti Series and her novels Who Fears Death, Zahrah the Windseeker, Akata Witch, Akata Warrior, Lagoon and Remote Control. She has also written for comics and film. Her writing is Africanfuturism and Africanjujuism, which is heavily influenced by her dual Nigerian and American heritage. She is the recipient of multiple awards, including the Hugo Award, Nebula Award, Eisner Award and World Fantasy Award. She is considered to be among the third generation of Nigerian writers. 

    As far as comics are concerned, Nnedi Okorafor has created stories for the greats like Marvel Comics and has even created her own series. Some of her most prominent works in comics include; LAGUARDIA, WAKANDA FOREVER, BLACK PANTHER: LONG LIVE THE KING, THE SHURI SERIES and AFTER THE RAIN. These comics tell deeply intriguing stories with complex characters who live in exotic worlds. You will certainly agree here that with some of the names on her list of comics, there is no doubt that she should be the most celebrated African comic book creator out there.

    In yesteryears, when anyone mentioned comics, the first thing that certainly came to mind was superhero characters in picture books meant for teenage boys. It goes without saying that this perception has greatly changed and the evolution that followed has seen girls getting more and more interested and engaged in this popular artform. Today, as this article clearly portrays, African women are at the forefront of both the consumption and creation of comics. And, arguably, women creators like Marguerite Abouet and Nnedi Okorafor are amongst the most successful African comics creators of all time, all genders inclusive.

  • Women in African Comics: Role Models for all

    Women in African Comics: Role Models for all

    African comics have a rich and diverse history that spans decades and genres. From superheroes to historical figures, from sci-fi to fantasy, African comics have created memorable female characters who are role models for readers of all ages and backgrounds. African comics are a powerful medium for expressing the diverse voices and experiences of women in Africa and beyond. From webtoons to graphic novels, from Zebra Comics to Marvel Comics, African comics showcase a variety of female characters who embody feminism and inspire readers.

    1. QUEENIE

    One of the most iconic female characters in comics is Queenie, a gangster queen who ruled the streets of Harlem in the 1920s and 1930s. Queenie was inspired by the real-life Stephanie St. Clair, a Martinican immigrant who became a successful crime boss and activist in New York.

    Queenie on the Zebra Comics blog

    Queenie’s story was so compelling that she got her own series, Queenie: Godmother of Harlem, by Elizabeth Colomba (drawing and script) and Aurélie Lévy (script). The series chronicles Queenie’s shocking and terrible life in comics as she established herself in “the underworld,” the center of an extremely vicious society. Queenie is a role model for her courage, intelligence, charisma, and resilience in the face of adversity.

    2. NGOZI

    Another female character who is a role model in African comics is Ngozi, a Nigerian teenager who becomes the host of an alien symbiote that grants her superpowers. Ngozi is the protagonist of Blessing in Disguise, a comic book created by Nnedi Okorafor (writer) and Tana Ford (artist) for Marvel’s Venomverse anthology. Ngozi is one of the first African female superheroes to appear in a Marvel comic, and she represents a positive and realistic portrayal of Nigerian culture and society.

    Ngozi on the Zebra Comics blog

    Ngozi is a role model for her bravery, compassion, curiosity, and sense of justice. She uses her powers to protect her city from a terrorist group called Boko Haram, while also dealing with the challenges of being a teenage girl in the society. Ngozi is inspired by the real-life Chibok girls, who were kidnapped by Boko Haram in 2014 and who showed remarkable strength and courage in their ordeal.

    3. MOON GIRL

    Lunella Lafayette (Moon Girl), a 10-year-old Black girl super genius who is the smartest person in the Marvel Universe. Moon Girl is the protagonist of Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, a comic book series by Amy Reeder (writer), Brandon Montclare (writer), and Natacha Bustos (artist). Moon Girl is an Afrofuturist character who uses her intellect and inventions to fight crime and explore the multiverse with her best friend, a red Tyrannosaurus rex named Devil Dinosaur.

    Moon Girl on the Zebra Comics blog

    Moon Girl is a role model for her creativity, curiosity, intelligence, and confidence. She is also one of the few Black female characters in comics who are interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Moon Girl is inspired by the real-life Black women scientists and mathematicians who have contributed to the advancement of science and technology.

    4. AZANIA

    Kwezi, a South African teenager who discovers that he has superpowers and that he is part of a group of ancient guardians who protect the continent from evil forces. Kwezi is the main character of Kwezi, a comic book series by Loyiso Mkize (writer and artist), Clyde Beech (artist), and Mohale Mashigo (writer). Kwezi is joined by a female character who is also role a model: Azania, a Zulu warrior princess who can manipulate fire.

    Azania on the Zebra Comics blog

    Azania is a model for her strength, courage, loyalty, and wisdom. She is also representative of the diversity and richness of African cultures and languages. Azania helps Kwezi to learn about his heritage and his responsibilities as a guardian of Africa.

    5. ANAKI

    Another one of these female characters is Anaki, the protagonist of a Zebra Comics book series by Ejob Nathanael (writer, illustrator, and colourist). Anaki is a young girl, who lives in Kameku a fictional Afrofuturistic city, and who discovers that she is the last of a long line of powerful witches. She embarks on an adventure to learn about her magic and her history, with the help of her friends Khufuti and Nubed.

    Anaki on the Zebra Comics blog

    Anaki is a feminist role model for several reasons. First, she is a strong, brave, and curious character willing to face dangers and challenges to achieve her goals; intelligent and resourceful, using her knowledge and skills to solve problems and overcome obstacles; and also a compassionate and loyal character who cares about her friends and allies.

    Anaki is one of the many female characters who are role models in African comics. She represents the potential and the power of women in Africa and beyond. She inspires readers to be courageous, compassionate, creative, and feminist.

    There are many more female role models in African comics. These are just a few that stand out from the horde. So next time you need some feminine motivation to get you by, check out these characters and get inspired by their journey.

  • How Comics Contribute to Brain Drain

    How Comics Contribute to Brain Drain

    Brain drain, or the emigration of highly trained or qualified people from a particular country to another, is not a new phenomenon. Usually, when a country wants to develop its economy and its general living standards at a rapid rate, especially when that country does not have the required workforce to pull that off, they resort to bringing in qualified people from other countries to come and do the necessary work.

    This has proven quite fruitful for many countries, especially western countries like the United States of America and Canada, who have taken advantage of this to grow their countries. This phenomenon has provided jobs and better opportunities for people from different parts of the world. At the same time however, brain drain causes countries, industries, and organizations to lose a core portion of valuable individuals. The term is often used to describe the departure of certain professionals, including groups of doctors, health care workers, scientists, engineers, or financial professionals. When these people leave, the places they leave are harmed in two main ways; Expertise is lost with each emigrant, diminishing the supply of that profession, and the (country’s) economy is harmed because each professional represents surplus spending units. Notable countries which have suffered the highest amounts of brain drain include India, Mexico, Cuba, Pakistan, South Africa and Nigeria. Most of these countries are developing countries and so it is understandable that these people usually leave because they are looking for better opportunities and a better life for themselves and their loved ones. This, however, does not take away the adverse effects of brain drain on these countries.

    The causes of brain drain are numerous, however, it is almost never imagined that something like comics and comic books can be a promoter of this phenomenon. So, the obvious question one will ask here is: how do comics contribute to brain drain? Let’s see how below.

    Brain drain comics and African comics on the zebra comics blog

    Comics are powerful storytelling tools which leverage the combination of image and text to tell memorable stories. It should be no news by now that images are very powerful when it comes to the transmission of information. Whatever we see, we do not forget. But it does not end there; we also build impressions in our minds on whatever we see. If it is attractive, it will surely leave a positive impression and vice versa. Images are powerful, and through them, we can get powerful information on people and places in ways which other communication mediums cannot provide. At the same time, comics contain stories which are usually communicated through narration and dialogue. Stories are as powerful as images because they can inspire people to think differently, making them super important even in politics and commercial success. When images and stories are merged together, therefore, they produce comics which are very effective in communicating information about a place and changing mindsets about happenings and movements. It is at this level that comics contribute to brain drain. When readers consume their favorite comics, they usually come face to face with places, people and situations that they are not usually familiar with. When a Cameroonian kid reads a Batman comic, or a Spiderman comic and sees the school system, the skyscrapers, the organized police and the job possibilities that the characters in these comics have, they will naturally want to experience these things firsthand. They therefore begin to dream about these places and these things which they do not have in their own contexts. And so, when the opportunity shows up, they emigrate without a second thought.

    It should however be noted that reading comics does not feature among the main causes of brain drain. Low salaries and inefficient working conditions, political instability and Search for further quality education still remain the key factors for this movement. Comics therefore play a more subtle role in this whole affair. Before making the decision to emigrate, people need to be sure that wherever they are going is a better place for them. Comics can therefore amplify the attractiveness of certain countries and push many people to move, confident that what they have seen in the comics are not very far from what is obtained in reality since every story is inspired by what the author sees in his or her immediate environment.

    Mancraft African comics on the zebra comics blog

    So, what does this mean for African comics creators and the African continent as a whole? This simply means that African creatives should create more comics which valorizes the continent by painting a picture which is not false, but one which puts forth aspects of the continent that many will admire. Poverty, sickness, crime and joblessness are present in Africa, but these same things are present in the most developed nations. African comics should therefore show a continent which has skyscrapers, technology, commerce and a warm culture. When Africans read comics like these, their perception of their continent will inevitably change and they will be less likely to succumb to the wave of brain drain.

    In a nutshell, brain drain, like everything else, has its pros and cons. While it provides better opportunities to emigrants, it also deprives countries of the economic potential which these emigrants bring. To help stabilize this phenomenon, therefore, comics can be used to change the perceptions that people have of a particular place and thereby ensuring that they stay and develop their countries of origin.

  • Intellectual Property Rights and Digital Comics

    Intellectual Property Rights and Digital Comics

    As technology continues to evolve, it is important for comic book fans to understand the intellectual property rights associated with digital comics. Digital comics are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and accessibility; however, they also pose unique legal challenges that must be addressed by both creators and consumers.

    Digital comics, like all digital products, are more susceptible to being pirated. With a smartphone and internet connection, anybody anywhere can pretty much access content online. At the same time, there are pirate websites and all kinds of digital tools that pirates can use to access content illegally. With this status quo, it is therefore important for all digital comics creators to be knowledgeable about intellectual property law so as to effectively protect their creations online.

    Intellectual property rights are the rights given to persons over the creations of their minds. They usually give the creator an exclusive right over the use of his/her creation for a certain period of time. As an example, according to the World Trade Organization, the rights of authors of literary and artistic works (such as books and other writings, musical compositions, paintings, sculpture, computer programs and films) are protected by copyright, for a minimum period of 50 years after the death of the author. Also protected through copyright and related (sometimes referred to as “neighbouring”) rights are the rights of performers (e.g. actors, singers and musicians), producers of phonograms (sound recordings) and broadcasting organisations. The main social purpose of protection of copyright and related rights is to encourage and reward creative work.

    Intellectual property rights are an essential part of protecting creative works from unauthorised use or distribution by third parties without permission from the copyright holder(s). So, as earlier insinuated, in order for creators and publishers alike to ensure that their work is properly protected, they must understand what IP laws exist and how they apply specifically within the realm of digital comics publishing.

    Intellectual property law for African comics on the zebra comics blog

    Intellectual property law applies differently in the digital world than it does in print media. For example, while copyright laws protect physical copies of a work from unauthorised use or distribution online, these protections do not necessarily extend into the virtual realm. This means that if you purchase a digital copy of your favourite comic book series online without obtaining permission from its creator first, you may be violating copyright laws even though you have paid for access to the material itself.

    In addition to protecting against unauthorised use or distribution of copyrighted works online, intellectual property law also protects against plagiarism – using someone else’s ideas without giving them credit – as well as trademark infringement (using another company’s logo). As such it is essential for all comic book fans who wish to engage with digital content legally and ethically, to understand what constitutes plagiarism or trademark infringement when accessing any type of content on-line – including comics!

    Furthermore , understanding how Intellectual Property Law affects our ability to share digitally purchased materials can help us ensure we remain within legal boundaries while still enjoying our favourite titles . It’s important that everyone involved – whether they’re creating new works based off existing ones , sharing fan art , posting reviews on social media sites etc, understands how IP Laws apply, so we can continue supporting innovative stories told through this medium.

    It is therefore clear that we all need to know what we should do and what we shouldn’t do when we come across content online or when we publish digital content like digital comics ourselves. Now, the question that remains is; What should we actually do to protect digital comics online? What measure should we take concretely? The following paragraphs provide some must-dos.

    plagiarism in african comics on the zebra comics blog

    The first thing to do is to ensure that you have copyright protection. Copyright protects the original expression of an idea but not the idea itself. This means that if someone creates a story featuring characters similar or identical to yours, they cannot be held liable unless they copy your exact words and drawings directly from your comic book without permission (this includes using screenshots). Additionally, it’s important to note that copyright does not protect ideas or facts; only expressions such as artwork and text are protected by copyright law in most countries around the world including the United States where copyrights last up until 70 years after the death of the creator (or 95 years after publication date if still alive).

    Another key thing to consider when it comes to Intellectual Property Law & Digital Comics is trademark protection which applies mainly to names used within stories or comics like character’s name, titles etc. The purpose behind trademarks being registered under IP Laws is basically to give creators exclusive rights over usage or exploitation associated with said names and marks. This means that no one else has authority nor right over those names or marks, except those who own them legally through the registration process. This also helps prevent confusion among readers who might think certain products come from the same source even though there are actually different companies involved in producing them respectively.

    Finally, patenting should also be taken into consideration when talking about IP Laws & Digital Comics. This is because patents give creators exclusive rights regarding inventions made during the production process – like special techniques used while drawing panels or pages etc. Patenting gives additional layer security against unauthorised use or copying which could lead to costly litigation cases down the road, especially considering how much money some big publishers invest annually into development departments responsible for making sure all new releases stay true to the original vision set forth by author(s) at the conception stage!

    Understanding how intellectual property laws apply specifically towards digital comics will help ensure that both fans and creators alike remain safe while enjoying their favourite content online. While there may seem like an overwhelming amount of information out there at first glance , taking some time to educate yourself about this area will ultimately benefit both creators and readers alike. Besides, it always feels good when you get a high value comic illegally and free, from shady sources online. However, when the lawsuits come, that’s when you begin to understand that life can appear with different shades of blue. Do not take any chances to pirate somebody else’ digital comics online.

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