The countdown has officially begun.
After months of anticipation, the organizers of the Mboa BD Festival have unveiled the official poster for its highly anticipated 16th edition, set to take place from February 18 to 21, 2026, in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
This year’s theme “Environment in Bubbles” signals a bold creative direction, placing ecological awareness at the heart of African comic storytelling.
And if the newly revealed artwork is any indication, Mboa BD 2026 is preparing to blend creativity, consciousness, and color like never before.
The official illustration was created by Mboumi Frank Cidic, also known as Le Roi Sculpteur, the featured author of this edition.
The artwork invites audiences to reimagine the environment through the expressive power of comics. Nature, imagination, and speech bubbles intersect visually transforming environmental reflection into immersive art.
More than a visual identity, the poster sets the tone for a festival determined to spark conversations around sustainability, climate responsibility, and the evolving role of comics as a tool for awareness and advocacy.
Yaoundé Set to Become the Capital of African Comics
From February 18 to 21, Yaoundé will once again transform into a vibrant hub for illustrators, writers, publishers, students, and culture enthusiasts.
Events will unfold across two iconic venues:
- Monument of Reunification
- Goethe-Institut Kamerun
For four days, the city will pulse with exhibitions, workshops, panels, live drawing sessions, book signings, and critical discussions exploring comics as both artistic expression and social commentary.
The 2026 theme positions the environment not as background scenery but as a central narrative force.
This year’s edition is supported by Pro Helvetia, including Pro Helvetia Johannesburg, further strengthening the festival’s international partnerships.
Their involvement highlights Mboa BD’s expanding influence in connecting African comic creators with global cultural networks and funding ecosystems.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Now in its 16th year, the Mboa BD Festival has established itself as one of Central Africa’s most important comic art platforms.
In 2023, the festival ran under the theme “More Intelligence in Comics?”, hosting activities in Yaoundé (November 22–25) and Douala (November 29–December 2).
That edition featured exhibitions, conferences, concerts, workshops, and performances reinforcing Mboa BD’s reputation for blending intellectual dialogue with creative celebration.
Each edition continues to expand the boundaries of African bande dessinée (BD), spotlighting emerging voices while honoring established creators.
Why “Environment in Bubbles” Matters Now
Comics have always reflected society’s realities. In 2026, Mboa BD is asking artists to reflect on one of the most urgent conversations of our time the environment.
By placing climate, sustainability, and ecological imagination at the center of visual storytelling, the festival challenges creators to rethink how art can influence awareness, policy conversations, and cultural shifts.
As organizers put it:
Patience has its rewards… and this one promises to be high in color.
Save the Date
📅 February 18–21, 2026
📍 Yaoundé, Cameroon
🎨 16th Edition – “Environment in Bubbles”
The veil has lifted. The bubbles are rising. And African comics are ready to speak louder than ever.