In a landscape where animation is fast becoming one of Africa’s most powerful storytelling tools, Taeps Animation Studio has stepped into the ring literally and figuratively with “The Spirit of Dambe”, a bold and emotionally charged animated short that blends heritage, heart, and heroism.
Now streaming on YouTube, The Spirit of Dambe has not only captured the attention of viewers across Nigeria but is also making its mark through an inspiring multi-school tour across Lagos.
From Corona Schools to MorretVille and Kids FM Fest, Taeps is taking African storytelling directly to classrooms mentoring young minds, inspiring pride, and celebrating cultural roots through creative artistry.
A Battle Beyond the Ring
Set in a stylized African world, The Spirit of Dambe follows Farouk, a 19-year-old orphan who enters a local fighting tournament to save his sick grandmother and honor the legacy of his late father. In the opposite corner stands Dongo, a fierce fighter battling for dominance.
Their clash Farouk’s fight for family versus Dongo’s fight for pride unfolds as more than a contest of strength. It’s a symbolic face-off between duty and ego, courage and fear, legacy and loss.
Through vivid animation, gripping choreography, and heartfelt storytelling, Taeps reimagines the ancient Hausa martial art of Dambe, a traditional combat sport that embodies resilience, honor, and the warrior spirit deeply woven into African culture.
Cultural Storytelling with Purpose
“We’re not just creating animation; we’re preserving cultural identity,” says Adeoyin Okuboyejo, Founder and CEO of Taeps Animation Studios.
At Taeps, storytelling goes beyond entertainment, it’s a cultural mission.
Okuboyejo and his team are dedicated to crafting African stories that are rich in values, emotionally resonant, and globally competitive.
Through The Spirit of Dambe, the studio showcases what African animation can be when tradition meets innovation.
Each school screening features interactive mentorship sessions where Okuboyejo engages directly with students, discussing legacy, resilience, and the importance of telling African stories with pride.
Taeps’ Growing Legacy
The Spirit of Dambe follows Taeps’ acclaimed short film, Ewa, which has already garnered over 400,000 YouTube views and multiple award nominations for its compelling portrayal of African femininity and strength.
The studio is now in development for its upcoming 3D fantasy epic, “Adétóún and the Heart of Time,” an original tale that promises to explore ancestry, bravery, and destiny further expanding Taeps’ reputation as one of Africa’s most visionary animation studios.
Why “The Spirit of Dambe” Matters
In an age where global animation often sidelines African narratives, Taeps is changing the game.
By combining authentic African stories, stunning visuals, and powerful moral lessons, the studio is redefining what it means to create “world-class African animation.”
Taeps’ work proves that the stories of Africa don’t just belong on the continent they belong on the global stage.
With each project, the studio continues to build bridges between tradition and modernity, inspiring a new generation of African storytellers to step into their own creative arena.
Watch The Spirit of Dambe now on YouTube: The Spirit of Dambe
Check out Taeps Animation Studio