The comic book industry in Africa is growing rapidly, with new publishers and creators emerging all the time. It only takes an utter lack of interest and total disconnection from anything that will bring a comic book fan away from the fact that African comics are getting more popular today. Names like Zebra Comics, Comic Republic, YouNeek Studios, Kugali Media and Etan Comics should be household names that any African comics fan should know. Some of them have gone as far as garnering eye popping adaptation deals with mega studios who operate on the international scene. This is evidence that African comics are gaining ground in a highly competitive marketplace.
It is however sad to note that despite all the success and attention which African comics enjoy today, there is still a lot that African comics companies need to learn. Lacklustre creations, poor distribution, and the absence of real marketing are some of the weaknesses that are holding African comics from growing into their full potential. In the middle of all these, it is however interesting to note that there exist examples from which African comics can learn. In the context of this article, African comics publishers can learn a lot from their American counterparts.
American comics have been around for so many decades now and they continue to be successful in any way imaginable. The medium has evolved so much that comics which are not typically of the superhero genre also see a lot of success in print, digitally and on the screen. There is therefore no doubt that American comics publishers, who are still to see this type of success, have a lot to learn from American comics.
So, what should African comics publishers learn from American comics? Here are a few things to take into consideration.
1. The Importance of Diversity
American comics have a long history of diversity, with characters from all walks of life represented in the pages of their books. This is something that African comics companies should strive for as well. By creating stories that feature characters from different backgrounds, African comics companies can help to break down stereotypes and promote inclusion.
2. The Importance of Storytelling
At the end of the day, comics are about telling stories. American comics companies have a deep understanding of storytelling, and this is something that African comics companies can learn from. By focusing on telling great stories, African comics companies can connect with readers on a deeper level.
3. The Importance of Marketing
American comics companies are very good at marketing their products. They know how to reach their target audience and get people excited about their comics. African comics companies can learn a lot from American comics companies in terms of marketing their products.
4. The Importance of Creating A Shared Universe
American comics companies have a long history of creating shared universes, where different characters and teams interact with each other. This has helped to create a sense of continuity and excitement for readers, and it is something that African comics companies could also explore.
5. The Importance of Iconic Characters
American comics have some of the most iconic characters in the world, such as Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man. These characters are beloved by fans all over the world, and they have helped to make American comics a global phenomenon. African comics companies should strive to create their own iconic characters that will resonate with readers around the world.
6. The Importance of Adapting to New Technologies
The comic book industry has always been at the forefront of technological innovation. American comics companies have been quick to embrace new technologies, such as digital comics and streaming video. African comics companies should follow their lead and embrace new technologies in order to reach new audiences.
In addition to these things, African comics companies can also learn from American comics companies in terms of production values, distribution, and business acumen. By learning from the best in the business, African comics companies can help to ensure the continued growth and success of the African comics industry.
The African comics industry is on the rise, and there is a lot of potential for growth. By learning from American comics companies, African comics companies can help to ensure the continued success of an industry that has the potential to contribute heavily to development of many countries in Africa.
