Premium storytelling in African comics, manga and webtoon

Author: Ejob Benjamin

The Best Time to Read Comics
Comic books offer a delightful escape from the pressures of daily life while providing opportunities for cultural exploration and learning. However, determining the best time to read comics requires careful consideration of several factors. Every comic book fan wants to have that special period of the day when their entire focus is directed at swiping through pages of comics. But how do you choose your moment? What factors can help you suggest ideal moments for indulging in this captivating medium? We spoke to several fans who read Zebra Comics as well as others and asked them what influenced their choice of reading time. We identified key factors that influence their decision. Let’s dive right in.

1. Personal Preferences

When it comes to reading comics, personal preferences play a significant role in determining the best time. Some individuals find that reading comics in the morning provides a refreshing and invigorating start to their day. The quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the morning allows for focused engagement with the comic’s storyline and art, offering a tranquil escape before the day’s responsibilities take hold. The morning can be an ideal time to absorb the visual details, immerse oneself in the narrative, and ignite the imagination for the adventures to come.
On the other hand, many people prefer to read comics at night, using them as a way to wind down before bed. As the day comes to a close, reading a comic can provide a soothing and relaxing experience, helping to calm the mind and ease stress accumulated throughout the day. The enchanting visuals and captivating narratives transport readers to imaginative realms, offering a reprieve from the demands of reality and paving the way for a restful night’s sleep.

2. Comic Book Genres

The type of comic being read also influences the best time to dive into its pages. Action-packed and thrilling comics, such as Retrograde and Anaki, with their dynamic artwork and fast-paced storylines, are best enjoyed during periods of heightened energy and concentration. Reading them when one is feeling alert and fully engaged allows for an immersive experience, where the excitement and intensity of the comic can be fully appreciated.
In contrast, more contemplative and introspective comics like Damo warrant a different approach. These comics often explore deeper themes, delve into character development, and require thoughtful reflection. To fully savour and appreciate the nuances of these stories, it is advisable to read them during moments of relaxation and introspection. This may include times when one is feeling more contemplative, such as during a quiet afternoon or evening, allowing for a more profound connection with the emotions and ideas conveyed by the comic. One reader joked that reading Damo was like enjoying meditation.

3. Scheduling Considerations

In addition to personal preferences and comic book genres, individual schedules also come into play when deciding the best time to read comics. With our busy lives, finding time to indulge in a comic can be a challenge. However, even in the midst of a hectic day, it is possible to incorporate short bursts of comic reading to provide a much-needed break and an injection of enjoyment. For readers who read the comics under the Slice of Life category of the Zebra Comics platform, they were able to read through a short story on the go. We recommend you check out The Pharmacist, The Execution and The Marshall.
For those with more flexible schedules and longer periods of free time, setting aside dedicated moments to fully immerse oneself in a comic can be a luxurious and rewarding experience. This might involve finding a cozy nook, curling up with a favourite blanket, and allowing ample time to fully absorb and appreciate the intricacies of the comic’s art and storytelling.

4. Suggested Times to Read Comics

Considering the aforementioned factors, here are a few suggested times that may be optimal for reading comics. You can choose whichever works for you.
Morning: For early birds, reading comics in the morning can provide a calming and focused start to the day. It can be a moment of tranquility before the world wakes up, allowing readers to set the tone for a positive and enjoyable day.
Lunchtime: Utilizing a break during work hours to read comics can serve as an enjoyable escape from the pressures of the office environment. It provides an opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate, preparing individuals for the remainder of the day.
Afternoon: If one finds themselves with free time in the afternoon, reading comics can offer a soothing and unwinding activity. It can serve as a delightful diversion, transporting readers to captivating worlds and infusing a sense of joy and relaxation into their day.
Evening: In preparation for sleep, reading comics can be a delightful way to unwind and clear the mind before bed. It creates a peaceful transition from the busyness of the day to a more tranquil state, enabling readers to escape into captivating narratives and visuals as they prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

5. Creating an Enjoyable Environment

As a bonus, irrespective of the chosen time, it is vital to create a comfortable space conducive to relaxation while reading comics. Find a cozy chair, create a tranquil ambiance, and eliminate distractions to fully immerse yourself in the comic book experience. Additionally, pairing the experience with a cup of coffee or tea can enhance the overall enjoyment, adding a touch of indulgence to the reading session.

6. Benefits of Reading Comics

Having said all this, what do you stand to gain as a fan of comics? Comics, Manga, African comics, webtoons and much more are just the different genres and ways in which this medium is presented. Just like TV, streaming and podcasts, comic book fans do not leave empty after perusing through wonderful pages of art. Reading comics encompasses various advantages, making it a valuable and enriching activity for individuals of all ages:
Relaxation and Stress Reduction: The combination of visuals and text in comics provides a soothing experience, offering a temporary escape from the pressures of daily life. The imaginative and engaging nature of comics can help readers forget their worries, providing a respite from stress and fostering a sense of relaxation.
Knowledge Acquisition: Many comics are based on real events, historical figures, and cultural phenomena, making them valuable educational resources. Through comics, readers can learn about different cultures, explore complex social and political issues, and gain new insights into various aspects of the world around them. This is especially through for African comics which are exposing African cultures to the world.
Stimulating Imagination: The visual nature of comics offers a unique platform for stimulating the imagination. By combining words and images, comics provide a dynamic and visually captivating storytelling experience. The vivid illustrations and narratives encourage readers to envision and interpret the world in fresh and imaginative ways, fostering creativity and expanding their visual literacy. If that doesn’t convince you, check out Beasts of Tazeti.
Fostering Connections: Comics are not just solitary experiences. They serve as a popular form of entertainment, fostering connections with like-minded individuals. Comic book clubs, conventions, and online communities provide opportunities for fans to come together, share their passion, and engage in discussions, further enriching the comic book reading experience. This goes without saying.

Conclusion

With the multitude of benefits and the flexibility of reading comics at various times, there is no reason to delay. Find a cozy spot, unwind, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of comic books today! Whether you choose tranquil mornings, rejuvenating lunch breaks, peaceful afternoons, or soothing evenings, let the magic of comics transport you to extraordinary realms and enrich your life with storytelling, art, and imagination. You can start here.
July 12, 2023
Is there an African Comic Book Art Style?

Comic books are a form of storytelling that combines words and images to create immersive and engaging narratives. Comics have been around for a long time, but they have gained more popularity and recognition in recent years, thanks to the success of superhero movies and graphic novels. Comics are not only a source of entertainment, but also a medium of expression, culture, and identity.
One of the questions that comic book fans and creators often ask is: what is the art style of a comic book? Art style refers to the distinctive visual elements, techniques, and methods that characterize a comic book’s appearance. Art style can be influenced by many factors, such as the genre, the audience, the message, the medium, the artist’s preferences, and the cultural context.
Different regions of the world have developed their own distinctive art styles for comic books. For example, Japanese manga is known for its stylized characters, expressive facial expressions, dynamic panel layouts, and diverse genres. American comics on the other hand are characterized by bold and vibrant colors, realistic or exaggerated anatomy, and detailed backgrounds. These distinct styles have become synonymous with their respective regions and have contributed to the global popularity of manga and American comics.

The Advantages of a Distinct Art Style

Having a distinct art style can offer several advantages for the comic book industry. First, it helps to create a recognizable and iconic identity for a particular region or culture. For example, when people think of manga, they immediately associate it with Japan and its unique artistic traditions. This association not only helps promote the manga industry but also fosters a sense of pride and cultural representation.
Moreover, a distinct art style can attract a dedicated fan base and contribute to the success of a comic book. When readers identify with a particular art style, they are more likely to seek out similar works and support the artists who produce them. This can lead to increased visibility, sales, and opportunities for collaboration within the industry.
Additionally, a distinct art style allows for experimentation and innovation. Artists can push the boundaries of their chosen style, explore new techniques, and create visually stunning and groundbreaking works. This artistic freedom and diversity contribute to the richness of the comic book medium as a whole.

The Challenge of Creating an African Comic Book Art Style

While many regions around the world have established their own recognizable comic book art styles, Africa presents a unique challenge due to its cultural diversity. The continent is home to a vast array of ethnicities, languages, traditions, and artistic expressions. It is a melting pot of cultures that makes it difficult to define a single, unified African comic book art style.
The diversity of African cultures, however, is also a source of strength and inspiration. African artists have the opportunity to draw from their own heritage, folklore, history, and contemporary experiences to create authentic and original comic book art. They can incorporate elements of traditional African art, such as intricate patterns, symbolic motifs, and vibrant colours, into their work.

African Artists with Distinct Art Styles

Although it is challenging to define an overarching African comic book art style, several African artists have emerged with unique approaches and aesthetics that could one day be recognized as the African comic book art style.
For instance, writer Roye Okupe has created the YouNeek Studios brand, which focuses on African-inspired superheroes and stories. His comics combine elements of Western comics with African cultural influences, resulting in visually striking and culturally relevant narratives. You can find these in E.X.O.™: The Legend of Wale Williams, Iyanu™: Child of Wonder and many others.
Another artist and writer worth mentioning is Ejob Nathanael of Zebra Comics, known for his distinct Africanfuturism style. His artwork often features futuristic African landscapes, stylized characters, and vibrant colours. Ejob’s work explores themes of technology, identity, and social issues in an Afrocentric context. Comics like “Anaki”, “Beasts of Tazeti” and soon-to-be-released “The Artist” embody this unique art style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of an African comic book art style is both complex and intriguing. While it is challenging to define a single style that represents the diverse cultures and artistic expressions found across the continent, African comic book artists have the opportunity to draw from their rich heritage and create unique and authentic comic book art.
The advantages of having a distinct art style, as demonstrated by the success of manga and American comics, provide motivation for African artists to develop their own visual language and contribute to the global comic book industry. By incorporating elements of traditional African art, exploring Africanfuturism themes, and drawing inspiration from their own experiences, African comic book artists can shape the future of comic book art and establish a recognizable African comic book art style.
As the African comic book industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential to celebrate and support the diversity of artistic expressions that emerge from the continent. By doing so, we can promote cultural representation, foster creativity, and enrich the global comic book landscape with diverse and compelling narratives.

July 11, 2023
The Best Tools for A Comic Book Artist Today
1. Software
One of the most essential tools for a comic book artist today is software. Software allows you to create, edit, colour, letter, and publish your comics digitally, saving you time and money. There are many software options available for comic book artists, but here are some of the most popular and widely used ones:

Clip Studio Paint: This is one of the most popular and versatile software for comic book artists. It has a lot of features and tools specifically designed for comics, such as perspective rulers, 3D models, vector layers, speech balloons, screentones, and more. It also has a large community of users and resources online. You can use it for both drawing and colouring your comics, as well as animating them if you want. It’s available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Chromebook, and iPad. At Zebra Comics, we call it “The One”. As a company that publishes African comics on our online platforms for a wide audience, we need to produce fast and maintain quality. Clip Studio Paint helps us stay productive.

Photoshop: This is another popular and powerful software for comic book artists. I know many African comic book creators who use Photoshop to create comics. It’s mainly used for colouring and editing your comics, but it also has drawing and lettering capabilities. Photoshop offers a wide range of brushes, filters, and adjustment tools that allow for detailed and polished artwork. It’s known for its versatility and extensive community of users, making it easy to find tutorials and resources online. Photoshop is available for both Windows and Mac.

Procreate: If you prefer to work on an iPad, Procreate is an excellent choice. It’s a powerful and intuitive drawing and painting app that offers a wide variety of brushes, layer options, and effects. Procreate is known for its responsive and realistic brush engine, making it a favourite among digital artists. Even among African comic creators. It also supports time-lapse recordings, allowing you to share your creative process with others. This is particularly useful for those who make tutorials. It is also a good way to show your work process to your audience. Procreate is exclusive to iPad and is widely regarded as one of the best drawing apps available.

Medibang Paint: This software is free and offers many features and tools specifically tailored for comic book artists. It has a user-friendly interface and a wide range of customizable brushes and screen tones. Medibang Paint also supports cloud storage, allowing you to easily access your work across multiple devices. It’s available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Many beginners tend to use Medibang since its easy interface makes it easier for them to learn the basics and grow their craft.

These are just a few examples of the software options available to comic book artists. Each software has its own strengths and features, so it’s important to try them out and see which one aligns best with your artistic style and workflow. Many of these software options offer free trials or lite versions, so you can experiment and find the one that suits you best.

2. Hardware

Alongside software, having the right hardware is crucial for comic book artists. Especially for those who are still beginners and those who still value traditional methods. Here are some essential tools that can enhance your artistic process:

Drawing Tablet: A drawing tablet allows you to draw directly on a digital surface, providing a more natural and intuitive drawing experience. Personally, it is a great artistic tool. One popular option is the Wacom Intuos Pro, which offers pressure sensitivity, customizable buttons, and a large drawing area. Other notable brands include Huion, XP-Pen, and Apple iPad Pro with Apple Pencil.

Digital Pen: If you’re using a drawing tablet or a touch-screen device like the iPad, a digital pen is a must-have tool. It provides precision and control while drawing or inking your comics. Some popular digital pens include the Wacom Pro Pen 2, Apple Pencil, and Adonit Pro 4.

Scanner: If you prefer working traditionally and want to digitise your artwork, a scanner is essential. It allows you to scan your pencil sketches or inked pages and import them into your preferred software for colouring and editing. Epson and Canon are well-known brands that offer high-quality scanners for artists.

Printer: Having a reliable printer is important for printing out reference materials, making physical copies of your comics, or creating prints for conventions or art sales. Look for a printer that can produce high-quality prints with accurate colours. Canon and Epson are popular brands known for their printers designed for artists.

Traditional Art Supplies: Even if you work digitally, traditional art supplies can still be useful. Pencils, pens, brushes, ink, and paper are great for sketching, inking, and exploring new ideas. Experimenting with traditional mediums can also enhance your digital artwork and provide a unique touch to your comics.

3. Pens, Pencils, and Brushes

In comic book art, the tools you use to create lines and textures are crucial. Here are some popular options for pens, pencils, and brushes:

Technical Pens: Technical pens, such as Sakura Pigma Micron or Copic Multiliner, are often favoured for their consistent line quality. They come in various tip sizes and are perfect for creating clean and precise lines.

Brush Pens: Brush pens offer a dynamic and versatile line quality, allowing for expressive and organic strokes. Brands like Pentel, Kuretake, and Tombow provide a range of brush pens with different bristle types and sizes.

Mechanical Pencils: Mechanical pencils with varying lead sizes are ideal for creating detailed and precise pencil sketches. Rotring and Staedtler are reputable brands known for their quality mechanical pencils.

Inking Brushes: For traditional inking, brushes are a popular choice. Sable, synthetic, or bristle brushes can produce a range of line weights and textures. Brands like Winsor & Newton and Raphael offer quality inking brushes suitable for comic book art.

It’s important to experiment with different tools to find the ones that best suit your style and preferences. Every artist has unique preferences when it comes to the feel and control of their artistic tools, so don’t be afraid to try different options and combinations.

4. Paper and Comics Supplies

Choosing the right paper is crucial for creating quality comic book pages. Here are some options to consider:

Comic Book Art Boards: These are specifically designed for comic book artists and provide a standard format for creating comic pages. They often have ruled borders and pre-printed panels, making it easier to plan and lay out your artwork.

Bristol Board: Bristol board is a popular choice for comic book art due to its smooth surface and durability. It works well with various mediums, such as pencils, ink, and markers.

Watercolor Paper: If you prefer working with watercolours or markers, watercolour paper can handle the wet media without buckling or warping. Look for heavyweight paper with a suitable texture for your preferred medium.

Markers and Inks: In addition to traditional mediums, markers and inks are commonly used in comic book art for colouring and inking. Copic markers and Dr. Ph. Martin’s Bombay India Ink are popular choices among artists.

5. Tips for Effective and Creative Use

Now that you have an overview of some of the best tools for comic book artists, here are some tips on how to use them effectively and creatively:

Practice and Experiment: Familiarize yourself with the tools by practising regularly. Experiment with different brushes, settings, and techniques to discover new possibilities and refine your skills.

Study and Learn: Take the time to study comic book art styles, composition, storytelling, and colour theory. Learning from other artists and analysing their work can inspire and improve your own artwork. One of the core principles at Zebra Comics is continuous learning. Evaluate yourself periodically by comparing your art from different time periods.

Collaborate and Seek Feedback: Join online communities, forums, or local art groups to connect with other artists. Collaborating with others and receiving constructive feedback can help you grow as an artist and gain fresh perspectives. Some artists take criticism personally, but in order to improve, one must accept their flaws and learn from them.

Stay Organized: Develop a system to keep your digital and physical files organised. Naming conventions, file folders, and backup strategies can save you time and prevent the loss of artwork.

Keep Learning: The world of art and technology is ever-evolving. Stay updated on the latest software updates, tools, and techniques. Attend workshops, watch tutorials, and read art books to continue expanding your knowledge and skills.

By combining the right tools with dedication and practice, you can unleash your creativity and bring your comic book visions to life. Remember that the best tools are those that empower you to express your unique artistic voice and tell compelling stories.

Conclusion

As a comic book artist at Zebra Comics, having the right tools is essential for unleashing my creativity and bringing stories to life. From software and hardware to pens, pencils, and paper, each tool plays a crucial role in the artistic process. By exploring different options, experimenting with various techniques, and continuously learning, you too can develop your skills and create captivating comic book art. Embrace the journey, have fun, and enjoy the limitless possibilities that come with being a comic book artist. And to my fellow African comic book creators, let’s break the wheel!
July 10, 2023
The Best Free African Digital Comics that You Can Enjoy Now

There should be a law in physics (or something) by now that states that every human being likes free stuff. That irrefutable fact should be hailed as one of the fundamental truths of human existence – the truth that everyone and anyone enjoys owning or consuming stuff that they did not work for or pay for. Well, whether that is good or bad, the fact remains that despite how funny it may look or sound, people will hop on the next free thing once it is made available to them.
This is particularly true for lovers of comics whose appetites for the entertainment medium never dies. A new comic is always good news for comic book fans. This even gets better when the content is free. A rare commodity like African comics will therefore garner even more attraction when it is free to read. This is particularly great at a time like this when many comics lovers are looking for what to occupy their minds with during these summer holidays.
If the above matches your profile, then you are in the right place. There are few places where you can find great African comics and there, they will be completely free. The following, therefore, are platforms where you can get these comics.

1. ZEBRA COMICS

Zebra Comics is a Cameroonian digital comics platform where comic fans can find original and authentic African stories. Like many digital comics platforms out there, Zebra Comics packs a list of varied genre comics that are bound to satisfy comics fans from different horizons with different tastes. Afrofuturism, fantasy, romance and slice of life are amongst the comics genres that you will find on the platform. The peculiarity of this platform, however, lies in the stories that are hosted there. From the first panels, anyone can easily notice that the stories are deeply rooted in African cultures, traditions and way of life. This makes the platform unique and provides great value for anyone who wants to escape life’s daily hurdles with quality entertainment.
The Zebra Comics platforms comprise an Android and iOS app, and a website. African Comics fans have the possibility to enjoy comics on this platform for free, and this will last for as long as comic books are still a thing.

2. COMIC REPUBLIC

Comic Republic is a Nigerian comic book publisher that just celebrated its tenth year of existence. For the last decade, this company has been publishing comics, mainly online, for African and international audiences alike. Comic Republic is mostly known for its focus on creating African Superhero characters for comics fans who are looking for something different from mainstream superhero propositions. In a world where Marvel Comics, DC Comics and Japanese Manga still dominate in terms of superhero stories, Comic Republic is a real breath of fresh air to comic fans. Their superheroes are African and their stories are based on African cultures, traditions and ways of life. This makes them very unique in the superhero space.
You can access and consume Comic Republic’s comics on their website and android app. This is high quality content for you, and it is all FREE.

3. VORTEX CORP

Like Comic Republic, Vortex Corp is a Nigerian digital comics platform which focuses on publishing African comics. There is a great variety of comics on the platform and you can access it with a PC, smartphone or tablet wherever there is an internet connection. The difference between this platform and the other two on this article is that not every comic book on this platform is free. The available free comics are just the first episodes of IPs available on the platform. Nevertheless, comics fans still have the opportunity to discover African comics on this platform with the availability of Free episodes. Vortex Corp content can be accessed via their website.

4. YOUNEEK STUDIOS

Again, this another Nigerian digital comics platform. Just like the others on this list, YouNeek Studios creates and distributes high quality African comics. Some of their iconic titles like EXO and Iyanu: Child of Wonder have even garnered adaptation deals from mega houses like HBO and Cartoon Network. This is evidence that the content on this platform is indeed great. On the downside, not everything here is free, so you will have to buy some content. Nevertheless, this platform offers a ton of content of their stellar African comics for free, enabling fans to be able to have a taste of what their stories, characters and worlds really are.

5. RAPTURES IO

Again, like many of the propositions on this article, Raptures IO is a Nigerian digital comics platform. Focusing on publishing comics in the webtoon format, Rapture IO’s android and iOS app offers a ton of original African comics created by African comics creators recruited by the company. The content is original and you can read a lot of content for free. However, not everything is free on the platform. Like Vortex Corp, you have access to a few episodes of existing comics for free, but will have to pay to continue reading the rest of each story.

These days, it is by far easier to find and consume African comics than it was some years ago. With the availability of the internet, things have become easier, as African comics creators and publishers just need to publish their comics online and reach millions of fans across the world. And as icing on the cake, there is so much Free content online in terms of African comics today. So, if you have been looking for how to get into African comics, just check the platforms mentioned above and you will be thrilled.

July 10, 2023
African Comics Festivals You Can Attend this Summer

Yay! The Summer holidays are here! It is time to have fun.
No matter which region of the world you come from, if you are a student or pupil or just someone who prioritises summer holidays, then this is a time when you will be looking for something exciting to do. Between travelling to exotic places, hanging out with family and friends and just being by yourself, enjoying any form of entertainment, there are many things that you can do this summer holiday. In between these different escapades, you can do something which is both exciting and didactic – attend comic book festivals taking place this summer.
Ok, let’s be clear here; the recommendations on this article concern those who live in the African countries where these events will be held. It is understandable that many others would like to know what is happening in every part of the world as far as comic book events are concerned. However, our focus here is on promoting events which are not well-known in Africa and through this effort, promote creations from African creators who live and work on the continent. That said, let’s see why you should attend comic books events in the first place.
Comic book and geek events, like any other event out there, are avenues for interesting encounters. In these events, comic book, movie, TV show and video game fans, and just curious individuals alike get to meet with comic book creators, film producers, video game manufacturers and even representatives from merchandize companies. At the same time, they get to discover new comics, games, movies, TV shows and merchandise which will be of great interest to them. Added to these, visitors can also attend conferences, masterclasses and other training which will provide them with a deeper insight on the industry. It is therefore very exciting to meet with creators, see new products, learn new things and just have fun with whatever is on display.
This is even very exciting when it concerns African comics. African comics are relatively new and quite different to comics from other parts of the world. The culture, storytelling and setting therein make the stories quite different from what you will find in superhero comics from the United States, Franco-Belgian comics and Japanese Manga. It is therefore very exciting to go to comic book and geek events and find African comics and their creators.
To be able to enjoy these experiences, therefore, here are some events you can attend this summer holiday.

1. LAGOS COMIC CON

Ok, technically, by the time Lagos Comic Con will take place, many youngsters would have been back in school. However, this mega event still counts as it happens in Summer. The Lagos Comic Convention is the largest comic book festival in Africa. For an event that holds for just a single day, it successfully pulls crowds that easily surpass the 10,000 visitor mark. Added to this, it successfully attracts participants from other countries like Zebra Comics PLC from Cameroon. On its menu are exhibitions, panel discussions, video game contests, video reveals, cosplay, comics sales and award of prizes. This year’s edition of the event will take place at the Landmark Centre, Water Corporation Drive, Annex, Nigeria on September 23. If you are a lover of comics, movies, video games and all that is geek culture, and you are based in Nigeria, you should not miss this event for anything on earth.

2. COMIC CON AFRICA

If you are in South Africa and wondering if you will ever experience the thrill of comic conventions in North America like the San Diego Comic Con, then you can stop worrying – Comic Con Africa is right here for you. Comic Con Africa is the Ultimate Pop Culture & Gaming Festival in Africa, a platform for both local and international Entertainment and Pop Culture, including some of the world’s biggest in the Film, Gaming, Comics, Collectibles and more! FOUR days of complete AWESOMENESS! 2022 was the convention’s first show after the pandemic and they have learnt a few things. First things first, they will be capping their tickets daily to manage capacity and to ensure an amazing experience for all their fans! This year’s event will take place between the 22nd and 25th of September at the JHB EXPO CENTRE in Cape Town, South Africa.

3. KIDSCON BY NAICCON

Started in 2014, the Nairobi Comic Convention, also known as Naiccon, is a geek festival that takes place in Nairobi, Kenya. So far, Naiccon has successfully held seven pop culture events, with over 6000 enthusiastic, artists, illustrators, comic book lovers, animation artists, youtubers, cosplayers, gamers, Digital content creators and movie lovers attending through the years. The convention organises other events like the Nairobi Comic Convention (NCC), Mombasa Comic Convention (MobCon) and Kids Convention (KidsCon). Like every other geek event, it is an opportunity for geeks and fans of everything around comics to celebrate comics, games, movies, exhibitions and cosplay. Even though the main event (Naiccon) isn’t taking place during summer, they have another event which comes up in August and which will interest kids – KIDSCON. This event is geared towards youngsters and a platform for them to enjoy all of the aforementioned goodies. It will take place on August 19 this year.

4. K-MER OTAKU FESTIVAL

This is for all fans of Japanese Geek culture out there – The K-mer Otaku Festival is here for you. This is an event geared specifically towards celebrating Japanese manga, animation, games and all other merchandise derived from this very popular market. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy exhibitions, games, karaoke, drawing sessions and much more. It is open to people of all ages and it takes place on August 5 at the “Hotel de Ville” premises in Yaounde, Cameroon.

5. THE GEEK BOWL

The Geek Bowl by Japanimes is an exciting gathering that brings together lovers of the arts for entertainment (comic strips, animated films and series, video games, etc.), and will be held in Yaounde. It is the biggest gathering of its kind in Cameroon. The special feature of the event is that it brings together consumers and producers of these artistic domains. From 2013, fans of Japanese manga, Franco-Belgian comics, American comic books and video games from all over the world had been able to come together as one, under the Japanimes umbrella to share their passions at an event called the Nimes Party, while at the same time discovering local producers, who have had the opportunity to introduce the general public to rising African comics, local video games and more. The first event which was called Nimes Party, was born in 2014, and was organised every year until 2019, by a group of enthusiasts, all members of the Japanimes association. The association will return this year, following a three-year hiatus, to organise a new event called the Geek Bowl. In one day, activities such as drawing, video gaming, cosplay, karaoke and exhibitions will be carried out. Also, there will be workshops around the creation of Origamis, kanjis, comic book writing and illustration, magic and much more. Apart from these activities, there will be exhibitions by several partners, and all round entertainment and excitement for visitors. The Geek Bowl will take place on August 12 this year.

If you are an African fan of comics, video games, movies, animation, merchandise and anything around comics, you have a lot to do this holiday. There are a ton of events to partake in which should help keep the geek in you alive.

July 10, 2023
The Five Most Popular African Comics Characters

In the world of entertainment, especially in the domain of books and comics, one of the most difficult things to do is to determine which piece of content is the best. Best here could mean anything – best story, best art, best cover etc. Irrespective of what particular aspect of books or comics we are looking at, coming up with a “best of” list is always a daunting task. And why is it so? Well, the reason is simple; human beings have varying tastes and what appeals to one man may be complete thrash to another. Identifying what is better in any scenario where we need to compare two things or a set of things is therefore an entirely subjective affair. And this can cause many people to be more emotional than they should normally be. Ok, we get that, we will be careful with our list.
On a more precise note, this article focuses on the most popular African comics characters and not on the best. We guess it should be common knowledge by now that in this era of social media and smartphones with cameras, being popular is far from being the same thing as being the best. Still, in this case, there is bound to be some disagreement. This is especially true for African comics as getting access to data is usually difficult and so knowing for sure which comic is the best is always a difficult thing.
Nevertheless, for the sake of this article, we made use of a number of criteria which we think should provide a good idea on which African comics characters are most popular out there. Amongst these criteria are publication outlets, articles published on these characters or works where they exist, adaptation into other media like animation and following on social media. With these, we were able to come up with the following characters as the most popular as far as African comics are concerned.

1. Guardian Prime

Created by Jide Martin, CEO at the Nigerian Comic Book company, Comic Republic, Guardian Prime is the flagship character of this company that just celebrated its ten years of existence. Guardian Prime, whose real name is Tunde Jaiye, was born in Lagos, Nigeria,to Nigerian parents. He is the son of Danjuma Jaiye,a military general, and Evelyn Jaiye, a businesswoman. From a young age, Tunde has lived a sheltered life, but nevertheless,has always believed in being compassionate and protecting the weak. When he becomes an adult, he finds out that he is a Guardian. Guardians are special humans tasked with protecting the Human race, and they are ordained by Gaia, the Goddess of the Earth. Every 2000 years,a new guardian is born into the world.Depending on the state of the world, some guardians live out their entire lives without ever knowing who they really are, as their powers never manifest until they are needed most. With the world in turmoil and with his newfound powers and abilities, Tunde Jaiye sets out to save the world as Guardian prime.

As a superhero character, he is described in the Comic Republic series as “Man, the way his creator intended him to be” and “The fifth element, one of the five essential elements for life to exist on Earth (Earth, Water, Air, Fire and Man-to stand guard over the others)”. He has invulnerability, super strength, flight, speed, enhanced senses, ability to intensify his body heat, and the ability to temporarily pass his invulnerability to any object he touches. Guardian Prime has immense strength. His notable feats of strength include carrying an Airbus aeroplane, ripping a helicopter into two, and he is so strong that he has even been seen as being able to carry an asteroid. Guardian Prime can fly at supersonic speeds, his most notable feat of speed is that he was able to fly from the sun back to the Earth in fifteen minutes. He can survive in space without the use of any breathing equipment. He can intensify his body heat and create fire. Gaia once said that he “can burn brighter than a blue star.

Thanks to the fact the company publishes its comics digitally on their website and android, fans across Africa and the world have been able to experience the exploits of this African comics character, making him one of the most popular African characters out there.

2. Malika

Created by Roye Okupe, Malika is one of the greatest (if not the greatest) female African comics protagonists of all time. Her story, Malika: Warrior Queen, is so intriguing that YouNeek studios, the comic’s publisher, was able to host several successful crowdfunding campaigns on kickstarter and make it possible for so many fans across Africa and the globe to experience her story.

Malika is the queen and military commander of the empire of Azzaz. She inherited the crown from her father in the most unusual of circumstances, splitting the kingdom of Azzaz in half. After years of civil war, Malika was able to unite all of Azzaz, expanding it into one of the largest empires in all of West Africa. But expansion would not come without its costs. Enemies began to rise within her council, and Azzaz grabbed the attention of one of the most feared superpowers the world has ever known: the Ming Dynasty. As Malika fights to win the clandestine war within the walls of her empire, she must now turn her attention to an indomitable and treacherous foe with plans to vanquish her entire people. Apart from being a master swordsman, Malika is a brilliant military strategist. And she was at her best with her cavalry unit. Led by their queen, the Azzazian cavalry is one of the most deadly military units ever.
Malika is so popular that the comic Malika: Warrior Queen has been published by Dark Horse comics. Fans can also find digital copies of the comics on the YouNeek Studios website.

3. Aya

Aya of Yop city is one of the most popular African comics out there. This is not just because of the fact that it has been adapted into an animated feature film, but also because the story is downright entertaining. Aya, the protagonist of the book,s a sweet and humble girl who is connected to every character in some way. Aya helps out the entire community in several ways. She is supportive of her friends and family and is always willing to help others. Although she is very young, the audience gets a glimpse of different problems and situations that are common in African culture through her.

Aya of Yop City is a series of seven bande dessinée comics written by Marguerite Abouet and drawn by Clément Oubrerie. The original French albums were published by Gallimard between 2005 and 2010. The first six volumes have been translated into English by Drawn & Quarterly. Although not entirely autobiographical, the story is based on the author’s life in Côte-d’Ivoire. Aya of Yop City is the second of three books in the Abouet’s Aya series, each based on the same characters. All three of the books in the series have been illustrated by the author’s husband, Clément Oubrerie. The authors adapted it for an animated film of the same title, which was released in 2013.

4. Shakes

Shakes is a fictional character and the main protagonist in the comic and TV series, Supa Strikas. He is the head striker in Supa Strikas FC, although this is often disputed by El Matador. Shakes is from Doha CIA CITY and grew up with his mom and sister, Nandi. He is the son of the previous football player for Supa Strikas, Jomo, who disappeared in Mt. Kilimanjaro when Shakes was young. Shakes was also friends with Spenza and Skarra, AND KING MALEK although his relationship with the latter later soured.

This exciting character brought a lot of flair, action and, consequently, entertainment to the Supa Strikas series. His charm and his wonderful football skills make him a fan favourite. Thanks to him, alongside other very interesting characters, the Supa Strikas comics knew great success and went on to be the greatest African comic book TV show adaptation of all time.

5. Ikei

Ever since the Zebra Comics App was launched in September 2022, there is one comic that has thrilled fans endlessly; that comic is KAWANA. Kawana is a romance and slice of life comic which mirrors the lives of university students and youngsters in a typical Cameroonian setting. And what makes this comic particularly intriguing is its protagonist – Ikei.

Ikei is a young, recalcitrant youngster who seeks love in the most questionable of places. By day, she is a university student and by night, she serves as an escort in chic hotels in the city of Buea. One may think that her involvement in such ‘scandalous’ activities is tied to her quest to satisfy her lack of financial resources. However, Ikei comes from a family that is a reference as far as wealth is concerned, so the inability to provide for herself is amongst the least of her problems. Why is she leading this kind of disastrous life then? Well, she is trying to fill a void, searching for a father’s love which is completely absent from her life. Throughout this comic, we see Ikei getting involved in one disastrous relationship after another, sinking deeper into emotional trenches which complicates her life even more.

Kawana was published on the Zebra Comics app and website and since then hundreds of thousands of people have read it, making Ikei, its main protagonist, one of the most popular African comics characters in 2023.

Yes, we know, there are many other characters who could make this list. It is worthy of note that the list was generated based on criteria stated above. Added to that, and as we already mentioned, getting adequate data about the performance of African comics is hard. Nevertheless, this list will continue to evolve as we get new data on African comics. For now, we assure you that the characters mentioned are great and worth checking out.

July 5, 2023
What Will the Future Look Like for African Comics?

Let’s state this from the start: the future of African comics is brighter than it has ever been imagined to be. From its humble beginnings to present day, African comics has seen growth that has been slow but steady. Actually, this slow rise in interest and consumption of African comics began to fade away when the internet showed up. With many more people owning digital devices like smartphones, PCs and tablets, and the deep penetration of the internet on the African continent, African comics have seen better days, reaching audiences which were impossible to reach before.

Now, all of the above sounds nice and cosy, but the state where African comics finds itself is not all roses and perfumes. To get into perspective, African comics still sit at the bottom of the podium when compared to comics from North America, Europe and Asia. Sales numbers are still considerably lower, production quality is not yet at its best, production quantities are still small and distribution is still a headache. Yes, it is true that African comics have come a long way and are doing better than ever, however, there are still a lot of things to be done to ensure that African comics reach their full potential and bring to the continent what it should normally bring.

So, yes, African comics can do much better than it is doing now. Even though African comics publishers are getting publishing deals with larger corporations and adaptation deals with media houses, African comics can do much more. There is much more terrain to cover and with the opportunities that are now available to African comics, the future cannot be anything else but bright.

So, what will the African comics market look like in the future? Here are some predictions for you.

1. Creation of new ‘African’ Art Styles

As you may already know, there are three art styles which have dominated the world of comics; American realism, Franco-Belgian style and Japanese Manga style. Yeah, we know there are a myriad of variations and art styles out there. However, these comic book art styles are developments from any of the aforementioned styles. This is the same story for Africans, mostly. Generally, Japanese manga has been a huge influence on comic book art in Africa. At the same time, though, we see a lot of influence from American and Franco-Belgian comics. In anglophone Africa, Japanese manga and American comics are highly appreciated. Franco-Belgian art styles add to the above in Francophone Africa. These influences are so strong that many artists find themselves virtually drawing characters that look like Japanese. This has been an issue for some time and it could be seen as one of the main reasons why African comics do gain the same attention and success as their western and eastern counterparts. Much of what is created to look like Japanese Manga usually drowns in the ocean of top Japanese creations, giving these comics little chance of emergence because they are not unique and authentic. The great thing at this point is that African creatives are learning and for some time, they have been working hard on bringing innovation and authenticity to their works. The future of African comics should therefore see the emergence of new ‘African’ art styles which will render African comics even more unique and authentic, and therefore attract many more consumers from across Africa and the world.

2. Increase in the number of comic book publishers from Africa

One of the biggest problems plaguing the comic book industry in Africa is publishing. There is a lot of talent on the content, however, most of that talent dies out due to the shortage or inadequacy of publishing houses. In some cases, creators cannot find the right publishing house on the continent to publish their works and get them to creators. The situation gets worse when we look at the real publishing capacities of these publishing houses. Many of them cannot ensure quality printing, others cannot print large quantities to meet large market demands and, above all, all of them usually do not have access to well-developed distribution networks that will help disseminate these books. Thank God, the internet is here. The future of comic book publishing will see the emergence of new publishers who will enable many more African comics to reach large audiences. This will also be the case for traditional publishers who will continue popping up to contribute their own quota to this anticipated growth of the African comics market.

3. Rise in the number of Comic book creators and creations

Log in to Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest, search for African comics, and you will discover a ton of African comic book creators out there. Today, the number of comics creators from Africa is growing. Interest in the artform is rising and many more Africans are getting interested. The problem, however, is that these creators do not end up publishing their creations for a wider audience to consume. It is true that some of them make use of social media to publish their comics, but except they have thousands of people following them on these platforms (which many don’t), their works will never reach larger audiences. As stated above, in the future, we will witness a growth in the number of comic book publishers from Africa. This will happen both in traditional publishing and in digital publishing. This increase in the number of publishers will provide more avenues for African creators to publish their work and encourage many others to create African comics.

4. Creation of more stories based on African history, culture and traditions.

Comics have usually been about superheroes, fantasy worlds, romance and contemporary life. This has influenced African comics creation so deeply that many African creators find it difficult to create anything new, even when there is a lot around them which can serve as inspiration. This is not to say that there is a problem with doing superhero, science fiction or fantasy comics. The issue here is that comics are a veritable platform for promoting cultures and ways of life, but many African creators do not take that opportunity to promote their own cultures. In the end, we witness so much creative potential being buried in reproducing what comic book enthusiasts have already seen over and over again. However, side by side with this trend, there is a rising consciousness of the need to tell original, authentic and undiluted African stories through different mediums, including comics. It is thanks to this consciousness that comic book companies like YouNeek Studios, Kugali Media and Comic Republic have been able to get the attention of mega production companies and sign important deals with them. This consciousness will only continue to grow and the future will see African creators making more use of African history, culture and traditions to create comics that sell Africa to the world in interesting ways.

5. Making a living through comics creation and publishing

The interest in comics will continue to grow, the need to tell authentic African stories will grow even more and this will culminate in African creators and publishers making more money from their respective activities. Today, there are a myriad of ways to monetize comics and so, much more money will be made. From subscriptions (both physical and digital), to digital coins, to monetizing with ads to adaptation deals, African comics will see brighter days in the future, and enable creators and publishers to make a decent living from their work.

6. More Adaptation Deals.

Adaptation into other entertainment formats is a big deal in the comic book industry. Adaptations into animation, video games, movies and merchandise always bring more consumers, exposure and revenue to comics. In the future, African comics will see more of this because many more comics from the continent will provide very interesting stories, characters and worlds that are excellent for adaptation into the aforementioned formats. This is already happening today with comic book companies like Comic Republic, Kugali Media and YouNeek Studios, and the trend will only continue to grow.

It is true that African comics are not yet witnessing the kind of growth that comics from the United States, France, Belgium and Japan are witnessing. However, African comics are gaining more and more attention and market share as days go by. Yes, shortcomings still exist that make things difficult for African comics to emerge properly. This has made it difficult for creators to create great comics and publishers to generate the kinds of revenue they should normally be generating. Nevertheless, with growing consciousness in the need to create content based on all that is Africa, the availability of new ways to distribute and monetize, and interest from production partners from across the world, the future of African comics looks brighter than it was ever imagined to be.

June 22, 2023
What African Comics Companies Should Learn from Franco-Belgian Comics

The world of comics today is really an exciting one. Besides the deeply intriguing and interesting stories that comics provide to global audiences, they also provide interesting characters and unique worlds that can be used to create more stories and adapt them into different media. Today, comics have grown in popularity in different parts of the world. The internet has also brought about the creation of new formats like webtoon, making it even more accessible and popular. This popularity is true for American comics, Franco-Belgian Bande Dessinee, Japanese manga, webcomics, webtoons and even African comics. However, the level of success that African comics are witnessing on the global market is by far lower than what others witness, and so there is a need to provide ideas on how to help African comics garner better attention and eventual success.

In previous articles, we looked at what African comics can learn from webtoon and Japanese manga to be able to get the kind of success that these comic formats are getting. In these articles, the problems which plague African comics, preventing it from growing as fast as those from other parts of the world, were highlighted. Low production levels, poor production quality, inadequate tools, inadequate distribution channels and poor marketing were amongst some of the issues which African comics face, preventing them from growing as fast, and as big as comics from other parts of the world. So, we will continue to look at what successful comics formats are doing so as to make recommendations that African comics publishers can take into consideration to grow their businesses.

In this article therefore, we will look at Franco-Belgian comics and see what African comics can learn from them to get the kind of success that they enjoy.

Franco-Belgian comics, also known as bande dessinée (BD), are comics that are originally published in French or Dutch and created for readership in France and Belgium. These countries have a long tradition in comics, separate from that of English-language comics. Belgium is mostly a bilingual country, and comics originally in Dutch (stripverhalen, literally “strip stories”, or simply “strips”) are culturally a part of the world of bandes dessinées; these are translated to French and concurrently sold to the French-reading audience, and vice versa.

Franco-Belgian comics are typically characterized by a more realistic art style than American comics, which are often more stylized. Franco-Belgian comics also cover a wider range of genres than American comics, which tend to focus on superheroes and action. Franco-Belgian comics can be about anything, from adventure to humor to drama.

Franco-Belgian comics are typically published as hardcover albums, while American comics are typically published as single issues or trade paperbacks. Franco-Belgian comics are also typically aimed at a wider audience than American comics, which are often aimed at children or young adults.

Some of the most famous Franco-Belgian comics include: Tintin by Hergé, Asterix by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, Lucky Luke by Morris and René Goscinny, The Adventures of Blake and Mortimer by Edgar P. Jacobs, The Smurfs by Peyo, and Spirou and Fantasio by Rob-Vel and André Franquin.

Franco-Belgian comics have had a significant impact on the world of comics. They have inspired many other comics creators, and they have been translated into many languages and published all over the world.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Franco-Belgian comics in the United States. This is partly due to the success of the movie The Adventures of Tintin, which was directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2011. The movie was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to introduce Franco-Belgian comics to a new generation of American readers.

There are many reasons to enjoy Franco-Belgian comics. They are well-written, well-drawn, and often deal with complex and challenging themes. They are also a great way to learn about French and Belgian cultures. If you’re looking for new and exciting comics to read, I encourage you to check out some Franco-Belgian comics.

With this rich background, African comics companies can learn a lot from their Franco-Belgian counterparts. Here are a few things that they should learn from Franco-Belgian comics:

1. Focus on quality.

Franco-Belgian comics are known for their high quality. They are well-written, well-drawn, and well-edited. African comics companies should focus on producing high-quality comics that will appeal to a wide audience.

2. Diversify your genres.

Franco-Belgian comics cover a wide range of genres, from adventure to humor to drama. African comics companies should also diversify their genres in order to appeal to a wider audience.

3. Tell stories that matter.

Franco-Belgian comics often tell stories that are relevant to the lives of their readers. African comics companies should also tell stories that matter; stories that will resonate with their readers.

4. Build relationships with international publishers.

Franco-Belgian comics are published all over the world. African comics companies should build relationships with international publishers in order to reach a wider audience.

5. The importance of collaboration.

Franco-Belgian comics are often created by teams of writers, artists, and editors. This collaborative approach helps to ensure that the comics are of the highest quality. African comics companies should also embrace collaboration in order to produce the best possible comics.

6. The importance of marketing and promotion.

Franco-Belgian comics are marketed and promoted extensively. This helps to ensure that they reach a wide audience. African comics companies should also invest in marketing and promotion in order to reach a wider audience.

By learning from the success of Franco-Belgian comics, African comics companies can help to grow the African comics industry and create a more vibrant and diverse comics culture on the continent.

June 22, 2023
Top 5 Read Comics on the Zebra Comics App in May 2023

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.

June 16, 2023
Children Characters as Role Models in African Comics
Comics are a popular form of entertainment and storytelling that appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. Comics can also be a powerful medium for conveying messages and values that can inspire and motivate readers. We will explore how children characters in African comics can serve as role models for young audiences and promote positive social change. But first…

What are African Comics?

African comics are comics that are created by African artists or that feature African themes, settings, and characters. African comics can be found in various formats, such as print, digital, and webtoon. Some examples of African comics are:
Zebra Comics: A Cameroonian comic publishing company that produces comics for all ages. They have a platform where they publish digital comics. Some of their titles include Kawana, Njoku, Wrong Dial, Beasts of Tazeti and Anaki, just to name a few.
Kugali Media: A platform that showcases comics and animation from across Africa and the diaspora. Some of their titles include Ndaw, Kokou, Nani, and Razorman.
YouNeek Studios: A comic studio that creates stories inspired by African history, culture, and mythology. Some of their titles include E.X.O., Malika, WindMaker, and Iyanu.
Comic Republic: A Nigerian comic studio that aims to create diverse and inclusive superheroes for Africa and the world. Some of their titles include Avonome, Guardian Prime, Eru, and Hero Kekere.

Why are Children Characters Important?

Children characters are important because they can represent the hopes, dreams, and challenges of young readers. Children characters can also help readers to relate to the stories and empathize with the characters. Children characters can also serve as role models for young readers by demonstrating positive traits and behaviours, such as courage, kindness, creativity, and resilience.

Role Models in African Comics

Children characters in African comics can be role models in various ways:

1. Showing diversity and representation

African comics often prioritize diverse and inclusive storytelling, featuring characters from different ethnicities, backgrounds, and abilities. By showcasing the diversity and richness of African cultures and identities, these comics challenge stereotypes and prejudices. For example, Comics Republic’s Hero Generation introduces readers to a group of teenagers from different ethnic groups in Nigeria who use their powers to fight crime and corruption, highlighting the strength of unity and collaboration.

2. Promoting social justice and activism

Comics are powerful tools for advocating social justice and inspiring activism. Young readers can be encouraged to take action by reading about issues affecting African communities and the world at large. For instance, Kugali’s Lake of Tears is a story of captivity and redemption told through the eyes of three teenagers who meet on Lake Volta. It is an ode to the plight of many children who are trafficked and forced to work in Ghana’s hazardous inland fishing industry, emphasizing the importance of tackling all actions that violate the rights of children through individual and collective action.

3. Creativity and innovation

Young readers are often inspired to explore their own talents and passions by African comics which celebrate creativity and innovation. Creating opportunities, thinking out of the box, and solving problems are the things they inspire readers to do. In YouNeek Studios’ Iyanu: Child of Wonder, the story follows Iyanu, a teenage orphan girl with no recollection of her past who suddenly discovers that she has hidden powers that rival the Divine Ones themselves. The story is set in a world that is inspired by the history, culture, and folklore of the Yoruba people. This creates a world that is familiar to young readers, yet new in many ways. Without a doubt, such creativity and innovation will inspire them to do the same. Or raise the bar.

4. Overcoming adversity and challenges

Children can learn resilience and determination from African comics by seeing characters who face adversity and challenges head-on. These characters demonstrate the importance of perseverance and provide valuable lessons on coping with difficulties. These comic book characters embody resilience and determination, showing that setbacks and obstacles can be overcome. Through their stories, young readers learn the importance of resilience, courage, and perseverance. They see that it is okay to make mistakes, as long as they learn from them and grow stronger. Zebra Comics’s Beasts of Tazeti, a young boy goes through several challenges in order to redeem his father’s name, offering young readers a source of inspiration and guidance when navigating their own struggles.

5. Promoting Education and Intellectual Curiosity

African comics often integrate educational elements, imparting knowledge and fostering intellectual curiosity among young readers. Children characters in these comics engage in adventures that involve history, science, culture, and more. They inspire young readers to explore and learn about the world around them. By combining entertainment with education, African comics encourage a love for learning and expand young readers’ horizons.

6. Building Strong Moral Values

Children characters in African comics serve as moral compasses, teaching young readers important values and principles. They demonstrate honesty, integrity, respect, and compassion in their interactions with others. These characters make choices that align with their values, inspiring young readers to do the same. Through their actions, children characters in African comics help shape the moral compasses of young readers, guiding them towards becoming responsible and ethical individuals.

Conclusion

Children characters are important because they can represent the hopes, dreams, and challenges of young readers. Children characters can also help readers to relate to the stories and empathize with the characters. They can provide a sense of identification and inspiration, showing young readers that they, too, can be heroes and make a positive impact in the world.

As the African comics industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to support and uplift the voices of African comic book creators. By doing so, we can foster a vibrant and diverse comic culture that reflects the rich tapestry of African experiences and inspires generations to come. African comics have the power to shape the future and tell stories that resonate with readers around the world.
June 16, 2023

review resume writing services