African animation is experiencing a golden era, with studios and creators across the continent telling stories that are fresh, culturally rich, and visually stunning. From mythological retellings to futuristic adventures, these films and shorts highlight the depth and diversity of African storytelling. Here are 10 must-watch titles:
1. Ajaka: Lost in Rome (Nigeria, Spoof Animations)
A bold reimagining of Yoruba history, Ajaka: Lost in Rome follows the fierce warrior prince of Oyo as he is captured and thrust into the Roman Empire. With breathtaking visuals and intense action, it’s one of Nigeria’s most ambitious animated projects.
2. Iyanu: Child of Wonder (Nigeria/US, YouNeek Studios + Lion Forge/Max)
Based on Roye Okupe’s hit graphic novel, Iyanu tells the story of a teenage orphan who discovers divine powers tied to Yoruba mythology. Soon to premiere globally on Max, it’s set to put African superhero animation on the world stage.
3. Khumba (South Africa, Triggerfish Animation Studios)
Khumba is a feature-length animated adventure about a young zebra born with only half his stripes. Shunned by his herd, he embarks on a daring quest for acceptance and identity. With its stunning visuals, humor, and heartfelt story, Khumba is one of South Africa’s most internationally acclaimed animated films.
4. The Legend of Ngong Hills (Kenya)
Drawing from Maasai folklore, this short film retells the tale of a terrifying ogre defeated by a brave warrior. Its lush landscapes and mythical storytelling make it a cornerstone of Kenyan animation.
5. TeraStorm (Kenya, Afrikana Digital)
A Kenyan computer-animated sci-fi feature directed by Andrew Kaggia. TeraStorm follows a team of African superheroes who must stop an ancient wizard from using a powerful artifact to destroy the Earth. It’s notable for being animated entirely using Unreal Engine and was Kenya’s entry for Best International Film at the 95th Academy Awards the first African animated feature with African characters and context to compete in that category.
6.Hadu (Nigeria, Smids Animation Studios)
Hadu is a Nigerian animated short that has gained international recognition. It recently won Best Animation Short at the 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and at the Fak’ugesi Digital Africa Festival in Johannesburg. It follows the story of a young girl, Simi, as she reconnects with her roots through her grandmother in narrative rich with magical realism, nostalgia, and cultural heritage.
7. SOPO (Nigeria, Creele Animation Studios)
SOPO is a 3D animated short by Creele Studios, which premiered in Lagos. It tells the story of Dotun and his son Oyejo, whose musical gift creates both conflict and connection between them. The film is praised for its emotional depth, strong visuals, and cultural resonance.
8. Dawn of Thunder (Nigeria, Komotion Studios)
Inspired by Yoruba mythology, this short reintroduces Sango, the thunder god, with high-octane animation and powerful storytelling. It’s a stunning tribute to African mythology brought vividly to life.
9. Naledi: A South African Short 2D Animation Masterpiece
This is a poignant South African short animated by Lola Aikins. It tells the story of a star athlete who must overcome debilitating grief in order to regain her confidence and finish her race. It’s visually striking, emotionally rich, and shows great craft in 2D animation.
10. A Kalabanda Ate My Homework (Uganda, Creatures Animation Studio)
This witty and playful short film tells the story of a student who claims that a mythical Ugandan creature the mischievous Kalabanda ate his homework. It’s a fun blend of folklore, humor, and modern animation, and has become one of Uganda’s standout contributions to African animation.