The new school season is sneaking up on us, but there’s still enough time to squeeze in some more fun. If you’ve been watching animated movies and series with the kids and you haven’t seen any African animation yet, you’re wrong. African animation is experiencing a renaissance, bringing vibrant storytelling and cutting-edge techniques to the global stage. These stories aren’t just entertaining; they’re powerful, culturally rich narratives that are making a significant impact, especially for young viewers. They open up a world where young minds can see themselves reflected in heroes, magical adventures, and futuristic cities, all while learning the importance of diversity and the universality of stories.
So, before the school bells ring, why not dive into this list of exceptional African animated movies and series? Trust us when we say these are stories that will leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll!
1. Kizazi Moto: Génération Fire (TV Series 2023)
This Africanfuturist animated anthology series is the second animated project from South Africa’s Triggerfish studio and is available to stream on Disney+. The series features ten different shorts, each with its own distinct storyline and art style, but all centered around sci-fi and fantasy themes. What makes this series stand out is how it draws from the rich and diverse histories and cultures of the African continent, bringing something fresh and captivating to each episode.
One of our favorites in the anthology is “Enkai,” a 3D animated short by Kenyan director Ng’endo Mukii. It’s a story about a young magical girl named Enkai, who’s trying to get her mom’s attention. The twist? Her mom is busy saving Earth from human greed and corruption. The episode brilliantly explores the sacrifices mothers and women make, often at the expense of their own well-being. The animation style is striking, almost resembling stop-motion, with beautiful earth tones of blue, red, and orange that enhance the narrative’s emotional depth. Themes of family and personhood are woven into the story, making it a standout episode in the series.
Covering a wide range of topics like ancestry, technology, and spirituality, Kizazi Moto: Génération Fire features work from artists across the African diaspora, including Zimbabwe, South Africa, Uganda, Egypt, Kenya, and Nigeria. It’s a fantastic way for children and adults alike to see African storytelling blended with sci-fi and fantasy, offering vibrant and innovative perspectives.
Rating note: 7+. Some mild violence and scary moments.
2. Garbage Boy and Trash Can (TV Series 2023-)
Meet Tobi, a superhero unlike any other, in Garbage Boy and Trash Can, a captivating animated series created by Nigerian animator Ridwan Moshood. This show is groundbreaking in its own right, following young Tobi, who doesn’t have the usual superpowers, and his quirky sidekick, a trash can. Together, they embark on the most exciting and hilarious adventures.
What makes Garbage Boy special? His unshakable belief in himself. Where others see trash, he sees endless possibilities for fun and adventure. Whether he’s crafting a sock-firing bazooka out of old PVC pipes or building an electron microscope from broken VCR parts, Garbage Boy shows that everything—even garbage—has value. His partner, Trash Can, is an alien robot exiled from his home planet, bringing infinite intellect and a gadget-filled metallic frame to their escapades.
Their main nemesis? Boredom and Dr. Sore Eyes, a scientist out for revenge after being rejected by the Academy of Really Real Sciences. But don’t worry—Dr. Sore Eyes often ends up sabotaging himself, adding to the hilarity.
Inspired by Moshood’s childhood experiences, Garbage Boy and Trash Can is a love letter to the cartoons we all grew up watching, like Dexter’s Laboratory and The Powerpuff Girls. The nostalgic influence is evident in the vibrant and engaging visuals of the series. You can watch it on Cartoon Network.
Rating note: 7+
3. Supa Team 4 (TV Series 2023-)
Supa Team 4 is not just another superhero series—it’s a powerful blend of African culture, girl power, and action-packed adventure. Set in a neo-futuristic version of Lusaka, Zambia, this animated series is Netflix’s first African animated original, created by Zambian writer Malenga Mulendema.
The show follows four incredible teenage girls who are recruited by Mama K, a retired secret agent who sees potential in them. Together, they form a superhero squad, juggling school and thrilling adventures as they protect their city from danger.
What we love about Supa Team 4 is its focus on empowering intelligent, talented Black girls. The series emphasizes the importance of teamwork, embracing unique strengths, and being unapologetically yourself. The animation is colorful and dynamic, bringing futuristic Lusaka to life in a way that’s both familiar and magical.
Beyond the superhero action, the show touches on socio-political and environmental themes, adding depth to the fun vibe. And those superhero transformations? Next-level! The girls’ suits, gadgets, and dance moves are not only visually stunning but also ridiculously fun to watch.
Rating Note: 7+. Mild violence.
4. Mikolo (2023)
Shifting gears slightly, Mikolo is a live-action animated film perfect for younger audiences and showing on Amazon Prime Video. Directed by Nìyí Akinmolayan, this film blends Yorùbá cultural myths with an engaging children’s adventure.
The story follows a mother who takes her two children to spend the holidays with their grandmother in Ondo. The children quickly become captivated by the tales of Igbo Irunmole, mythical beings that capture the adventurous sibling’s imagination. When they encounter Mikolo, a vibrant, hippogriff-like creature, the siblings make it their mission to keep it safe, diving headfirst into an unforgettable adventure.
Mikolo is one of the first Nigerian films to prominently feature child characters, offering a fresh perspective on Nigerian storytelling. It’s an enchanting film that allows children to see themselves in imaginative roles while celebrating Yorùbá culture.
Age Rating: PG
5. Iwájú (TV Series 2024-)
Finally, we have Iwájú, Disney’s first African animated series—and it’s nothing short of a game-changer. This collaboration between Disney Animation and Kugali Media, a Pan-African creative team, is set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria, and explores deep themes like class division and societal inequality.
Iwájú follows Tola, a young girl from the wealthy island, and her best friend Kole, a tech-savvy genius from the mainland. The series balances these complex themes with action-packed sequences and those heartwarming Disney moments we all know and love.
Visually, the show is a feast for the eyes. The animation captures the vibrant chaos of Lagos, blending futuristic elements with authentic African culture. Every detail, from the bustling markets to the local snacks like puff-puffs, is meticulously crafted, making Iwájú a celebration of African culture on a global stage.
But it’s not just about stunning visuals. Iwájú delves into the complexities of life in Lagos, highlighting the stark contrasts between the rich and the poor, and how technology can either bridge or widen that gap. This powerful narrative of hope and resilience makes Iwájú a must-watch.
Age Rating: 8+. Some scares and mild violence.
There you have it! Five incredible African animated movies and series to watch before heading back to school. Each of these selections offers a unique glimpse into the diverse cultures, histories, and future possibilities of the African continent. So, before the hustle and bustle of school starts, take some time to enjoy these masterpieces of African animation. You won’t regret it!
