Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pan-African Entertainment Company Kugali’s latest series, “Iwájú”, made its debut on Disney+ on February 28, 2024. The groundbreaking series is set to air on Disney Channel in Africa this April and May, allowing viewers to experience the show in regions where Disney+ is not available. The series, consisting of six episodes, is an original animated show set in a futuristic Lagos and tells the coming-of-age story of Tola and Kole as they navigate the secrets and dangers of their worlds.
Director Olufikayo Ziki Adeola expressed his excitement about the series, stating that they created “Iwájú” as a love letter to Lagos, Nigeria, and an ode to the rich legacy of African storytelling. Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa hailed “Iwájú” as a celebration of African creativity and storytelling excellence. She emphasized the significance of bringing home-grown talent to global audiences through the distribution of the series on Disney Channel, alongside the release of the “Disney Iwájú: Rising Chef” mobile game and the “Iwaju” Original Soundtrack Score.
Accompanying the series debut is the documentary special “Iwájú: A Day Ahead,” which sheds light on the journey of Kugali’s founders and their collaboration with Walt Disney Animation Studios. The documentary underscores the transformative power of talent and opportunity.
“Iwájú” marks a significant milestone in African animation, showcasing the vibrancy and creativity of the continent’s storytelling traditions while embracing innovation and collaboration on a global scale. As the series makes its way to Disney Channel, audiences across Africa can look forward to experiencing the magic and excitement of this groundbreaking animated adventure.
