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The Five Highest-Read Comics on the Zebra Comics App in the Month of April 2023

Introduction

Zebra Comics is a digital platform that publishes African comics. The app was launched in 2022 and has since become one of the most popular platforms for African comics. 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. The following are the five highest-read comics on the Zebra Comics app in the month of April 2023:

1. Kawana

Synopsis
Kawana, or Kauna, means “love” in Hausa. Ikei’s 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 crossroads, 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. Kawana has been sitting at the top of the charts for over 3 months now!

Lessons
Kawana teaches readers about the importance of family love. It shows the importance of parental love and how the absence of it can destroy a family.

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 organized 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
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.

Lessons
City Blues teaches readers about the importance of friendship, courage, and self-acceptance. It also brings out the ills of succumbing to peer pressure and the consequences it can result to.

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
Anaki is an Afrofuturistic comic book series 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.

The union between randy gods and human women gives rise to the Balemba-kids with special gifts. The last of them, Anaki, struggles to survive in the face of the deadly Inquisition tasked with wiping out all evidence of the gods’ descendants.

Anaki is a powerful witch, but 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 and compelling character, and her story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of the human spirit.

Special Features:

A powerful and original story about a young witch who is trying to find her place in the world.
Stunning artwork that brings the world of Anaki to life.
A unique blend of African Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Afrofuturism.
A must-read for fans of science fiction and fantasy.

Lessons
Anaki teaches us about survival, resilience, and never giving up. The protagonist’s resolve and struggles teach us that although the journey may be tough, there’s hope at the end if we keep fighting.

Credits
Anaki is another piece from Ejob Nathanael Ejob. Anaki has seen three successful Kickstarter campaigns. All credits including writing, illustration, colouring and lettering to E.N. Ejob. You can also find it on the Zebra Comics mobile app and website.

4. Kush

Synopsis
Once in the kingdom of Kush, arose a Queen called Amanirenas. After facing great personal loss, and with the empire of Rome constantly seeking to conquer her realm, Amanirenas had to become more than just a queen. She had to become a warrior. This story is largely based on real events.

She grew up as royalty in the Kingdom of Kush. As a kid, Amani became a favourite of the gods, especially Sobek, the crocodile god of the Nile. But that did not stop certain forces in the dark from trying to usurp her position as the next Kandake (Queen) of Kush. Despite having Sobek on her side, it is not enough to counter the deep political machinations that move against her.

In this pit of turmoil, she must either solicit the help of an enemy in Kemet (Egypt) or face the crushing forces coming against her alone. She must become the Queen that Kush needs to survive.

Lessons
Kush is a story of courage, determination, and the power of faith. It is a story about a young woman who must overcome all odds to save her kingdom. It is a story that will inspire readers of all ages.

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

5. The Pharmacist

One of the surprises in the month of April was The Pharmacist which falls under the category Slice of Life. The Slice of Life category in the Zebra Comics digital platform contains very short thought-provoking tales. It can be likened to flash fiction in written storytelling.

Synopsis

“The Pharmacist”, is a hilarious short comic book that will have you in stitches with its comedic take on a young man’s pursuit of love. Meet Suyru, a penniless guy who encounters a major problem – a serious case of diarrhoea. In desperate need of medication, he heads to the neighbourhood pharmacy and meets the stunning pharmacist. Unfortunately for him, his quest for love is complicated by his ongoing stomach issues.
“The Pharmacist” is a short, lighthearted comedy that will take you on a journey filled with laughter and mishaps. Watch as Suyru tries his best to impress the pharmacist and win her heart, all while battling the unpredictable nature of his gastrointestinal system. This hilarious tale of love and digestive issues will leave you cheering for Suyru and his never-ending pursuit of happiness.

Lessons
The pharmacy teaches us to choose our timing carefully. If you know what I mean.

Credits
The Pharmacist 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

Conclusion

The five comics mentioned above are just a few examples of the many great African comics that are available on the Zebra Comics mobile app and website. If you are looking for a fun and engaging read, I highly recommend checking out some of these comics.

May 20, 2023

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

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

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, 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 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 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 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.

May 9, 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.

1. City Blues

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.

2. Galactic Core

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.

3. Jemiro

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.

4. Assegai

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.

5. Djarabane Volume 1

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.

6. T’zee

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.

7. Njoku

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.

8. Ndoli

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.

9. Kawana

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.

May 2, 2023

Zebra Comics PLC Launches Paid Subscription On Their Apps (Android and iOS) And Website

In many parts of the world, and in Africa in particular, running a traditional comic book company is a bold affair. Usually, undertaking such a venture requires a lot of perseverance, passion and resources for growth to be imminent. It is particularly the case for Africa because the required creative tools are not always available, printing is expensive, distribution networks for comics are almost nonexistent, communication around comics is not deemed important and thereby, consumption of comics suffers greatly. This has been the state of affairs for some time and it almost brought about a situation of inertia in the comics landscape. Thank God, the internet came and things changed. The switch to digital creation and the possibilities of communication and distribution brought about by the internet has helped many African creators to increase the production of African comics, and African comics companies to distribute African comics across the globe easily.

Zebra Comics PLC is one of such companies that migrated from traditional publishing to digital publishing. Thanks to the great advancements that the digital era has brought, the company has been able to increase production of comics tenfold, and they have been able to get this content in front of the eyes of thousands of people. This ability to distribute their content was particularly made possible through a mobile application (android and iOS) and a website. On these platforms, users are offered original African comics that you wouldn’t find anywhere, and in great numbers. The categorization on these platforms which breaks down the content into different genres like afrofuturism, science fiction, teen and slice of life presents users with a huge repertoire of comics which they will spend time enjoying. Added to this, there are several episodes available for each of these IPs, providing users with content that will keep them entertained for a considerable amount of time. All of these are presented with an interface which is attractive, easy to navigate and generally user-friendly. As of today, the platform has attracted thousands of comic book enthusiasts from around the world, and the number keeps growing.

It is also important to note that for some time, all the content on the platform was completely free to view. As a new player in the digital comics landscape, it was important for the company to first of all show users what they have in store for them before they moved on to start proposing subscription bundles. From September 2022 till March 2023, thousands of users visited apps and the website and they enjoyed free episodes of comics like Kawana, Anaki, Khadija, Beasts of Tazeti and Mancraft.

It is therefore true that the company opted for the freemium model for their app and web platforms. This simply means that access to the app and website is completely free. However, as a company that employs staff and invests heavily in the production of these digital platforms and content therein, the content on the platform cannot be completely free. To keep the business afloat, therefore, the company opted for a subscription based model, where users pay a subscription and then gain access to all the content on the platform for a specific amount of time. The subscription in this case is low enough to encourage any comic book fan to be able to afford the subscriptions, and enjoy the content provided to the fullest. The different available subscription bundles are:

3.99 USD for a Month

10.99 USD for a Quarter of a Year

22.99 USD for Half a Year

46.99 USD for a Full Year

With each of these bundles, users gain unlimited access to all content on the platform which is delivered, without interruption, on a weekly basis.

Zebra Comics PLC does not only exist to tell untold African stories through comics to the world, but to also provide a means of livelihood for comic books creators (writers and artists), create jobs for other administration professionals, promote African cultures in general and help grow economies on the continent with the use of the internet. Subscribing to a bundle on the Zebra Comics apps and website will not only assure you access to unlimited undiluted and highly entertaining content, but it will also help in the growth of an industry that is trending, and that has the potential to provide jobs for thousands of creatives across Africa.

Zebra Comics PLC will continue to work on new features, new content and new monetization options for their platforms. In the meantime, continue to follow this company on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube), install their android and iOS applications, visit their website and enjoy the unique content that they will continue to provide nonstop.

April 14, 2023

Jemiro: The New Afrofuturism Title on the Zebra Comics App and Website

If you are a fan of African comics, then you should be excited: Zebra Comics just released its new Afrofuturism and fantasy title called JEMIRO. As popular as Afrofuturism is, there aren’t enough comics based on this genre from the African continent. African creators are very interested in fantasy, sci-fi, politics, slice of life, thrillers and romance, but not many are producing Afrofuturistic stories for African readers. Created by Ejob Nathanael, written by Franklin Agogho and illustrated by Bryan Bantar, JEMIRO is therefore a breath of fresh air in a space where there is so much potential for awesome Afrofuturistic stories. As a reminder, Afrofuturism is a cultural aesthetic, philosophy of science, and history that explores the intersection of the African diaspora culture with science and technology. It addresses themes and concerns of the African diaspora through technoculture and speculative fiction, encompassing a range of media and artists with a shared interest in envisioning black futures that stem from Afro-diasporic experiences. It comprises cultural production and scholarly thought—literature, visual art, photography, film, multimedia art, performance art, music, and theory—that imagine greater justice and a freer expression of black subjectivity in the future or in alternative places, times, or realities. It also offers speculation about a world wherein black people are normative. Afrofuturism can also imagine dystopian worlds to come, with contemporary injustices projected into, and often intensified in, the future. While Afrofuturism is most commonly associated with science fiction, it can also encompass other speculative genres such as fantasy, alternate history, and magical realism. Afrofuturism is therefore a very important genre in artistic creation. This brings us to the question: how is Jemiro Afrofuturism and what is it all about?

PLOT

For starters, the title JEMIRO was taken from the Amharic word “Jemiri” which means “begin.” The story of JEMIRO is therefore based on the notion of beginnings. The events in this story take place one million years ago and during this time, a planet called Wongan is dying. A geological phenomena where the planet’s sun is pulling the planet to itself is occurring and its occupants have no choice but to leave. The issue, however, is that they do not have the technology to evacuate the eight hundred million inhabitants of the planet, thereby forcing them to send just two people (Tai and Nika) who will ensure the continuity of their race. With just a glimpse of the new world where these two will land, Tai and Nika are therefore sent off into deep space. Their journey brings them to our planet, Earth, in the era of pangaea. Tai and Nika will therefore have to survive this new world which is inhabited by humanoids who look very much like the envoys from Wongan and who are in the middle of a crisis caused by the disappearance of a very valuable resource called Milk Rain.

SETTING

As already mentioned above, the events of this story take place in two principal locations: the planet called Wongan and our dear planet, Earth. Wongan is the representation of technological marvel. The advances in transport, computing, security and medicine are clearly evident when one looks at the beautiful illustrations of this comic. The system of government is also sophisticated, making it the adequate source of conflict that is prominent in the story. Wongan is a technological marvel but, like Earth, it is a place of class distinction: the haves and the have nots live in two different worlds. Made predominantly of hills and mountains, Wongan presents a unique setting where science, politics and fantasy play in tense and exciting ways. All of this is spiced with the noticeable presence of African-inspired architecture, clothing, weaponry and traditions, making it Afrofuturistic. On the other hand, our planet Earth in this story takes us back to a million years in the past. To make things fresh, Jemiro presents a version of earth that is inhabited by beings who look very much like humans (with minor differences), who live in African inspired houses and who practice cultures that are very traditionally African. This therefore makes the newcomers from Wongan to look more human than the human beings on earth, putting an interesting spin on the origins of mankind.

CHARACTERIZATION

Jemiro packs a long list of very interesting characters. The main characters in the story are Deaconess Tomaino, Tai, Nika and Bram. Each character is developed in such a way that their arcs bring so much to the overall story. Deaconess Tomaino is the ruler of Wongan who has to deal with the difficult situation of saving her people by letting almost all of them die. Tai is a recalcitrant wannabe superstar who is forced to embark on the journey to Jemiro for the sake of the survival of his race. Nika is a quiet and nerdy scientist who is also obliged to go on the journey to earth with Tai and become his partner, even if she is not in love with him. Bram is a poor farmer whose son is dying and who will do anything, even defying order, to save his son. The characters in this story are so dynamic and their arcs fit very well into the entire story, making it a must read.

STYLE

At the base, Jemiro is a science fiction and fantasy story and many of the tropes you will find in stories of these genres are present. High tech, political intrigue, mythical creatures, magic, stylized costuming and strong dialogue are all present in this story. The story particularly shines when it comes to the interactions between characters. Dialogue is crisp and crafted in such a way that character traits shine very brightly. Jemiro, therefore, is not just beautiful to look at, but it is also interesting to read.

CONCLUSION

Like many Afrofuturistic comics and graphic novels out there, Jemiro presents a futuristic and fantasy world where people of African descent are fighting to change their fates within a difficult world. This foundation is made rich by a great story, beautiful settings, intriguing characters and posh style which naturally makes for a great read. Jemiro is truly a breath of fresh air in the afrofuturism comics space. You can read Jemiro now on the Zebra Comics App and Website.

March 30, 2023

Upcoming Release on the Zebra Comics App and Website: The Artist

The world of comic books and webtoons is about to welcome a new addition with the release of “The Artist” on the Zebra Comics app and website. With stunning artwork, unique characters, and a highly detailed environment, this comic promises to be an engrossing and action-packed experience for readers. In this article, we’ll look at what makes “The Artist” so appealing to comic book readers, from its setting and characters to its broader cultural background.

Introducing the World of “The Artist”: Setting and Context

“The Artist” takes place in a futuristic African society where magical elements coexist with technological advancements. Artists have great power and influence in this world, serving as a link between people and gods and driving society forward. Tahlah, our protagonist, is a gifted young artist who hails from a long family of artists. Tahlah’s story unfolds as he learns about his forefathers, a group of artists who brought the Elder God’s wrath to their ancestral home, Koldari.

Meet the Protagonist: Tahlah

Tahlah is “The Artist’s” heart and soul, a skilled artist who hails from a long line of Artists. Tahlah’s character is multifaceted and nuanced, with a fascinating past that readers will enjoy. After a horrible tragedy paralyzes him from the waist down, his father performs a procedure that allows him to walk again. Yet, due to restrictions, Tahlah must pretend to be crippled in order to preserve his father’s secret. But when a school trip goes totally awry, Talhah returns unwillingly to his ancestral home, where more dangerous secrets and myths are uncovered.

Supporting Cast: Other Characters

No great comic book is complete without a solid supporting cast, and “The Artist” is no exception. The characters in this comic are richly rendered and complex, ranging from Tahlah’s classmates, Mabar and Nuri, to demons and gods, each with their own goals and agendas that push the plot forward. Whether it’s a god trying to regain his place in the celestial realm or a father protecting his son from the history of his ancestry, there’s never a dull moment in “The Artist.”

Themes and Motifs: Analyzing the Comic’s Symbolism

“The Artist” is a comic book about the impact of contemporary technology in African communities and how it influences the continent’s different traditions. The comic examines themes of love, family, and the relevance of ancestral values in modern society, raising critical concerns about the relationship between modernity and tradition. This comic will undoubtedly provide readers with deep insights into the human experience and the complexities of African cultural identity.

The Release: Where and When You Can Access

In April 2023, “The Artist” will be available on the Zebra Comics app and website. Fans of the comic book genre can look forward to the arrival of this new limited series by exploring the platform’s extensive library of titles. “The Artist” is set to become a beloved addition to the world of comic books, thanks to its magnificent artwork, unique characters, and thought-provoking themes.

March 15, 2023

Zebra Comics Launches Its Ambitious Digital Comics, Webtoon, And Manga Platform

If you have been following up on the evolution of the comic book industry in Cameroon, then there is a name which you must have certainly heard about. The name is ZEBRA COMICS. On the other hand, if you are a comic book fan from Cameroon and you don’t know about Zebra Comics, then you must be living under some rock in some unforgotten eldorado.

Well, on a serious note, for all those who know nothing about Zebra Comics, know that it is a media company based in Douala, Cameroon, that deals in the creation and distribution of comics, webtoons and manga, and which has been in operation since 2016. It should however be noted that Zebra Comics did not start off as this company with several salaried workers who dedicate their time and energy to make sure you are entertained and educated in the best way possible. They started off as a group of young people who had nothing more than their passion to tell original and authentic African stories to the world and who wanted to see it operate as a business.

After self publishing their work, partnering with a publisher to publish more content; participating in international comic book events like the Mboa BD Festival, Lagos Comic Con and Bilili BD Festival; becoming laureates at the Cameroon Business Challenge; becoming members of prestigious leadership platforms like the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and the Obama foundation; and successfully raising funds on kickstarter.com to finance their comic book creation and commercialization endeavors, they decided that it was time to take this venture to the next level: create a company.

And so Zebra Comics PLC was born in 2020. This rebirth equally saw a drastic change of direction in their operations: the company decided to focus on the production and commercialization of digital comics, webtoons and manga. Anyone who is living and breathing today will agree that smartphone and internet usage is growing at a staggering rate across the globe. Also, the unbelievable growth of digital comics, webtoons and manga across the world presented itself as an opportunity for Zebra Comics to go the digital way. To make this work, writers, artists, editors, translators, marketers, software developers and other professionals had to be brought together to work and produce stuff that is truly fresh, authentic and African.

So, what did all this result in? Well, after two years of hard work, Zebra Comics PLC is proud to announce that comics, webtoon and manga lovers can now enjoy exciting African comics, manga and webtoon anywhere and any time with their smartphones, tablets and PCs through a brand new digital platform (application and website). This platform is subscription based (like Netflix) where users can have access to a ton of content all in one place. Users just need to go to Google PlayStore and download the app or visit the website.

On the app and website, users will discover a great variety of comics, webtoon and manga under the categories of romance, afrofuturism, fantasy, science fiction, sports, humor and slice of life. There is a long list of original IPs whose new episodes are uploaded on a weekly basis. Users will also discover titles like Anaki, Kawana. Khadija, Mancraft, Wrong Dial, Kush, The Patriarch: Damo and much more. Each of these comics, webtoons and manga treat themes that are very relatable and entertaining. Themes explored include religion vs tradition, love and family, witchcraft in modern warfare, spirituality and martial arts, and survival, amongst many others. This deep pool of original content will keep any subscriber entertained on a constant basis for a long period of time.

To discover all of these comics, webtoons, and manga, you just need to go to Google PlayStore and download the app called ZEBRA COMICS. For now, the app is not yet available on the Apple app store. Nevertheless, apple and PC users will get the same experience when they log unto the website https://zebra-comics.com/#/home.

February 9, 2023

CITY BLUES – The New Title on the Zebra Comics App and Website

City Blues is an exciting new African comic book series that tackles life’s struggles and the tenacity of the human spirit. It tells the story of Malika and Ade, a young couple who study together. However, life takes an unexpected turn, and Malika finds herself unable to find a way out, with Ade unable to help in any manner. Peer pressure and other bad forces intervene, dividing the once-strong pair on multiple fronts. Both pursue separate roads that, paradoxically, lead to the same result.

The Plot

It’s not always easy to stick to your ideals when life throws you a curveball, and Malika’s commitment is put to the test as she encounters situations that test her values. Until Dijki enters her life, she feels as if no one is there to aid her. This charismatic and mysterious character enters Malika’s life just as she needs it. Dijki appears to be a beacon of light for Malika at first, but as the comic book unfolds, it becomes unclear if he is a wolf in sheep’s clothing or a true ally. Will Malika be able to find the strength to face these obstacles while remaining true to her values? Will she bow to life’s pressures?

The Main Characters

Malika is the story’s protagonist, a student who confronts life-changing difficulties that put her resolve and principles to the test. She is confronted with the difficulties of adulthood and struggles to navigate them. This distinguishes her from many comic book characters and makes her a very relatable figure to many young Africans going through the hurdles of life. Ade is Malika’s partner, and he is unable to help her in any manner because they are both dealing with personal issues. As the comic book progresses, the reader gets a peek at Ade’s struggles and the decisions he must make. Dijki is a mystery man who enters Malika’s life, although it is unclear if he is there to help or hinder her.

The Setting

The story of City Blues is set in a typical African city that captures the essence of city life and the challenges that come with it. The city provides the backdrop for the comic, serving as both a source of inspiration and a reminder of the daily struggles that people face. The comic’s topic revolves around the idea that it is not always easy to stay true to your principles when life throws you a curveball. City Blues is a must-read for comic book readers searching for a new and fascinating series to read. Especially for readers who want to discover African societies through comic books. The story is well-written, and the characters are relatable. The setting of the story is both familiar and unique, capturing the essence of city life while also offering a fresh perspective on the romance genre.

The Theme

City Blues is a narrative about the difficulties of human relationships and the significance of sticking to one’s principles. It is a comic about tenacity, persistence, and the human spirit. It’s a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what happens next. City Blues is a must-read for fans of drama and adventure, thanks to its powerful themes and relatable characters.

Release Date

Episode 1 of City Blues will be released on Thursday, February 9, exclusively on the Zebra Comics app. The first in a franchise of stories with the same title, City Blues promises to be a thrilling African comic book series that will leave you wanting more.

CITY BLUES is the latest addition to the Zebra Comics app and website, where you can find the best African comic books and webtoons. Get ready to experience a world of drama, adventure, and suspense with the latest must-read title. Whether you are a fan of comic books or are new to the genre, City Blues is a comic book that you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars for Thursday, February 9, and get ready for the release on the Zebra Comics app and website.

February 8, 2023

NJOKU: The African Comic Book/ Webtoon That Shines On Mythology And Heroism.

What do you know about African deities? Well, one will guess that many authors, creators and even academics have cast a lot of light on deities from across the continent. From Shango to Anansi, African deities have been part of comics,webtoons, novels, movies and all manner of popular culture out there. However, there is still a ton of undiscovered terrain as far as African deities are concerned. One of such deities is called Efasa-Moto.

Part and parcel of the Bakweri culture and mythology, Efasa-Moto is believed to be the male component of the Liengu la Mwanja or the legendary “Mammy Water” or the Queen Mermaid of the Atlantic ocean on the coast of Cameroon. It is said that after an agreement between the two, Efasa-Moto chose to live on Mount Fako while the Liengu la Mwanja remained at sea. Efasa-Moto owns vast sugar cane plantations on the mountain slopes and is the spiritual protector of the mountain which is amongst the highest peaks in Africa. Apart from sugar cane farms, the mountain also harbors elephants which are under the protection of Efasa-Moto. Physically, Efasa-Moto is described as being divided vertically from top to bottom in a strange mixture of half human and half stone, and yet shaped in the form of a man giving a complete picture of a goat standing on its hind legs.

It is with this background that Njoka Suyru, writer and creator at Zebra Comics PLC, created the Comic book IP, NJOKU. The word Njoku in Bakweri language means Elephant in English. From this link between Elephants and gods on the slopes of Mount Fako, Njoka Suyru coined a story around a group of boys who ventured up the mountain without authorization from the competent government authorities and ended up desecrating the holy grounds reserved for the gods. The consequence of this is that one of them, Axel Takam, is forced to choose between living with the curse of the gods which compels him to be of service to mankind or save himself and see mankind perish.

This is a fantasy comic book story set in contemporary Cameroon (in the town of Buea, to be precise) and steeped in a heavy dose of mysticism, mythology and heroism. It is a comic book that tells the story of love, sacrifice, betrayal and many other themes that are very relatable to day-to-day human experiences. And to crown it all, this was inspired by real life experiences lived by the comic’s creator, Njoka Suyru.

NJOKU is an action packed and character driven narrative that shines on story. This is pure African comics as it incorporates African cultures, traditions, mythologies, belief systems and even contemporary life. If you are looking for something to fit your best selection of African fantasy and superhero comics, then NJOKU is for you.

The first episode of NJOKU will be released on the Zebra Comics App and Website on Friday February 10, 2023. If you do not have the app or don’t know the link to the website, just click HERE to get to them.

February 7, 2023

The Zebra Comics App And Website At The Bilili BD Festival

Within the impressive halls of Institut Francais, Brazzaville, Congo, lovers of comic books, animation, video games, film and cosplay from the Republic of Congo, Cameroon, France and different parts of the world converged to bring the 6th edition of the Bilili BD Festival to life. The Bilili BD festival is an annual cultural event that focuses on the promotion of comics, animation, video games, cosplay and any other thing that revolves around these sectors. The interesting thing is that the Bilili BD Festival is a platform that prioritizes the promotion of African creations, rendering them more visible and valuable in the eyes of Africans and people from the rest of the world. Celebrating its 6th edition, this festival continues to grow at a tremendous rate, attracting important actors of the 9th art from different parts of our planet. Most importantly, this year’s event was held under the theme, “Transmedia.” This is a very timely theme as we live in an era when the creation and distribution of comics through different media has seen no precedence. And this was clearly made palpable by the presence of Zebra Comics PLC at the event.

Zebra Comics PLC is a Cameroonian comic book publishing company based in Douala, Cameroon. As one of the international guests on this August occasion, Zebra Comics PLC, represented by the dynamic and energetic Mr Njoka Suyru, is a representation of what transmedia in the comic book domain means. In other words, Zebra Comics PLC is a comic book creation company that focuses on the creation and distribution of digital comics. This means that the company works heavily with digital tools to not only create comics but also to distribute them.

The importance of comics in education and entertainment cannot be overemphasized. The use of images in comics renders consumption and retention of information stronger and so makes it a powerful tool for the dissemination of knowledge. Add images that depict the African way of life to the equation and you have a veritable tool to promote African cultures, traditions and entertainment. Zebra comics made this evident at the Bilili BD Festival this year through an exposition of its original comic book IPs. Titles like Anaki, Njoku, Wrong Dial, Totem, Jemiro, Tumbu and Khadija were on display, portraying African storytelling through comics to visitors who admired the exposed boards. These stories treat topics like terrorism, witchcraft, female football, religion and history, and they are dished out in the most entertaining fashion. The icing on the cake is that all of these stories can be enjoyed by anyone anywhere in the world through the android application and website.

With the theme “Transmedia” hanging in the atmosphere of the festival grounds, Zebra Comics PLC, with their latest version tablets, displayed what comic book lovers stand to gain when they get into their digital ecosystem (app and website). Beyond just distributing comics digitally, Zebra Comics provides their comics and manga content in webtoon format, a format which is adapted to mobile phones and therefore makes the consumption of digital comics more convenient. Also, given that the platform is subscription based, users can have unlimited access to all of the content once they sign up. The idea, which is very clear by now, is definitely to provide an excess of high quality African content to fans everywhere in the world at a very affordable price. This, undoubtedly solves the issues plaguing the sector of comics on the continent.

To get into the platform and enjoy all of these amazing stories, you just need to go to Google Playstore and download the app ZEBRA COMICS (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=dme.systems.zebra_comics&hl=en&gl=US) or visit the website https://zebra-comics.com/#/home.

February 3, 2023

Category: News

Introduction

1. Kawana

2. City Blues

3. Anaki

4. Kush

5. The Pharmacist

Conclusion

1. The Flash – June 2, 2023

2. Aquaman 2 – December 22, 2023

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

7. Kraven the Hunter – October 6th, 2023

4. Blue Beetle – August 18, 2023

5. The Marvels – November 10, 2023

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

7. Kraven the Hunter – October 6th, 2023

PLOT

SETTING

CHARACTERIZATION

STYLE

CONCLUSION

Introducing the World of “The Artist”: Setting and Context

Meet the Protagonist: Tahlah

Supporting Cast: Other Characters

Themes and Motifs: Analyzing the Comic’s Symbolism

The Release: Where and When You Can Access