The Zebra Comics digital platform user base continues to grow as the months pass by. In April 2023, the Zebra Comics app had over 60 thousand downloads and over 30 thousand active users less than 6 months after its release. During the month of May, the number of downloads rose to 70 thousand. New episodes of popular comic books on the platform were released while a few new stories were added to the catalogue which comic book fans can explore on the app or website.
The following are the five highest-read comics on the Zebra Comics app in the month of May 2023:
1. Kawana
Synopsis
At the top of the table is Kawana. This beautifully written contemporary story riddled with twists and turns continues to hold the top spot on the table for 3 months in a row. Kawana or Kauna, means “love” in Hausa. The story revolves around Ikei whose parents are constantly fighting, and she has never felt loved or supported by them. She has turned to relationships and material possessions to fill the void in her life, but these things have only brought her more pain. She is now at a crossroad, and she must decide whether she wants to continue down this destructive path or try to find true happiness.
Ikei’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of materialism and the importance of family. It is also a reminder that even the most privileged people can suffer from emotional pain.
Credits
Kawana was written by Franklin Agogho, a Cameroonian author with several works under his belt such as the poetry anthology “Crossroad of Dreams” which he co-authored. He was also the pioneer laureate of the short story prize organised by Cameroon’s Ministry of Arts and Culture in 2016.
Concept: E.N. Ejob
Illustrations: Beti Ophélie
Colours: Achidi Ajaga
Cover art: Maitre Show
Lettering: Tamunjoh Azushi
2. City Blues
Synopsis
Another story that has maintained its position is City Blues. It is two months in a row that City Blues has been second. City Blues tells the story of Malika and Ade, a young university couple who face challenges and are divided by peer pressure and devious forces. Malika, a devout lover who stays focused and perseveres despite all the temptations around her, is pushed to the edge of compromise when something happens that threatens her reputation. Her problems interfere with her relationship with Ade as she struggles to resist the advances of rather…persistent admirers. It is not often easy to stay true to your values when life throws you curveballs, but Malika’s resolve is tested as she faces situations that challenge her values. It seems like no one is there to help her until Dijki comes into her life. But whether he is a sheep or a wolf remains to be seen.
Credits
City Blues was written by Cameroonian author, Ejob Nathanael Ejob. Despite his background in Law, EN Ejob now spends his time creating comic books of various genres. You can find other comic books by his hand on the Zebra Comics mobile app or website.
Illustrations: Maitre Show
Colours: Achidi Ajaga
Lettering: Tamunjoh Azushi
3. Anaki
Synopsis
Coming in third place is the afrofuturistic gem, Anaki. It is about a witch tortured by the past of her forebears and hunted by a powerful religious inquisition. An ambitious project which brings you a piece of African Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Afrofuturism in ways which you haven’t seen before. It is easy to see why Anaki stands amongst the top 3 highest read comics of May.
Anaki is a powerful witch, yet she is also a young woman who is trying to find her place in the world. She is haunted by the memories of her ancestors, who were killed by the Inquisition. She is also struggling to control her powers, which are often unpredictable and dangerous.
Anaki is a complex character who is both strong and vulnerable. She is determined to find her place in the world, but she is also afraid of what she might become. She is a survivor, but she is also a victim.
Credits
Anaki is another piece from Ejob Nathanael Ejob. Anaki has seen three successful Kickstarter campaigns. All credits, including writing, illustration, colouring and lettering, go to E.N. Ejob. You can also find it on the Zebra Comics mobile app and website.
4. Njoku
Synopsis
One of the surprises of this month was Njoku. With barely a few weeks after release, the stunning comic book took the place of Kush and occupied the fourth place.
Njoku tells the gripping tale of Axel Takam and his companions embarking on an illicit journey up Mount Fako, known as the Chariot of the gods. Unknowingly, Axel desecrates the sacred land, angering Epasa Moto, the mountain deity, who seeks revenge by cursing Axel.
Meanwhile, a gathering of gods convenes, dismayed by humanity’s abandonment of sacred traditions. They decide to punish mankind by pitting them against each other. The gods handpick a group of mortals through whom they will unleash their wrath, seizing the opportunity presented by Axel’s transgression.
Within this chaotic backdrop, a power struggle ensues among the gods, with conflicts of interest and betrayal surfacing. Our protagonist, burdened by his curse, must make a difficult choice between self-preservation and championing humanity’s cause.
As Axel embarks on his quest to right the wrongs of humanity, he discovers that he is not alone in the struggle against the gods’ machinations. Allies and adversaries alike are entangled in this divine stalemate, adding complexity and depth to his journey.
Credits
NJOKU was written by Cameroonian author and translator, Njoka Marvin. He has written other literary works such as “A Dame for Three and Other Short Stories”, which he co-authored with An Nina (AKA Athena) under the pseudonym Nsai Shiyki. You can find other comic books by his hand on the Zebra Comics mobile app or website.
Illustrations: Alone Legend
Colours: Coeurtys Minko
Lettering: Tamunjoh Azushi
5. Kush
Synopsis
Dropping down to fifth place is the historical fiction Kush which explores the intriguing life of Queen Amanirenas. With the empire of Rome constantly seeking to conquer her realm and Amanirenas facing great personal loss, she had to become more than just a queen. Her only choice was to become a warrior.
As a child, she was a member of the royal family of the Kingdom of Kush. The gods favoured Amani when he was a child, especially Sobek, the Nile’s crocodile god. Yet certain forces in the dark sought to usurp her position as Kandake (Queen) of Kush. Despite having Sobek on her side, it is not enough to counter the deep political machinations that move against her. Against these crushing forces, she must either seek assistance from an enemy in Kemet (Egypt) or confront them alone.
Credits
Yet another piece by E.N. Ejob. However, there were other creatives who contributed their talents to bring this story to life.
Illustrations: Maitre Show
Colours: Coeurtys Minko
Lettering: Tamunjoh Azushi
Conclusion
As we go through the midpoint of the year (June), comic book fans and lovers of African storytelling should expect more from Zebra Comics as releases of new episodes of their favourite stories as well as entirely new stories are unveiled. The five comics mentioned above are just a few examples of the many great African comics that fans will find on the Zebra Comics mobile app and website.
Comics are a great way to relax and escape from the stresses of everyday life. They can also be a great way to learn about new cultures and perspectives. If you are in the mood for a fun and engaging read, I would strongly suggest checking out some of these comics. There are different genres of comics available, so there is sure to be something for everyone.
Magnificent. I’m now a fan!