A new feature film titled “Makemation” presents a captivating African coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of artificial intelligence (AI). Directed by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, a Nigerian filmmaker with a background in AI development, the film offers a unique perspective on AI, steering the conversation from the usual Western narratives to an African context.
After a successful showing in Nigerian theatres in 2025, “Makemation” is now making its rounds internationally, including a recent screening I attended at the Harvard Centre for African Studies. This screening was followed by a vibrant discussion with the producer and economist Ebehi Iyoha, who focuses on the nuances of AI development in Africa. Together, they emphasised the theme that the future of AI need not be dictated solely by external powers but can also be envisioned and constructed from within the African continent.
The film tells the story of a young girl named Zara, who learns to harness AI to uplift not just herself but her entire community. As Zara navigates challenges such as poverty, societal expectations regarding gender, and limited access to STEM education, her journey symbolises the potential for youth innovation, digital inclusivity, and the advent of indigenous technology across Africa.
From my perspective as a scholar in literature and cultural studies, “Makemation” is a crucial contribution to the discussion surrounding the global dominance of Western techno-narratives. It contextualises AI within local histories of inequality and ambition, showcasing how African futures are continually imagined and constructed through popular media.
The film’s title, blending the words “make” and the suffix “-mation,” suggests concepts such as automation, transformation, and innovation. It asserts that young Africans are not merely passive consumers of AI but rather active contributors to its creation.
“Makemation” poses essential questions regarding the future of AI: Who will shape its development? Who stands to benefit? And how can innovation thrive in environments where basic infrastructure is often lacking? In regions where formal employment opportunities are scarce, ingenuity often arises from necessity.
Far from portraying Africa as an afterthought in technology discussions, the film challenges the abstraction of global AI debates, often shaped by the interests of major tech companies and governments in the US and China. While these conversations about existential risks and large-scale automation are significant, they risk overlooking the pressing realities faced by communities where access to electricity, a reliable internet connection, and quality education cannot be relied upon. In many African urban centres, young people are innovating in ways that defy conventional definitions of progress.
“Makemation” vividly illustrates this creativity. The film portrays informal settings not as hindrances, but as thriving spaces of innovation. The protagonist captures this essence with a poignant remark about her parents’ professions, highlighting her belief in education and innovation as pathways to opportunity. Such lines bridge the film’s exploration of AI with the everyday realities of labour, family aspirations, and resilience.
During the discussion following the screening, Akerele-Ogunsiji underlined the critical role of storytelling in shaping technological futures. If the narratives surrounding AI remain confined to a limited set of geographic and demographic perspectives, they risk perpetuating existing inequalities.
According to the UN, Africa is home to one of the world’s youngest populations, a demographic reality with significant implications for AI integration, labour dynamics, and educational frameworks. The film argues that if this youthful generation is supported by inclusive policies and access to digital tools, they could redefine AI to prioritise local needs rather than external assumptions.
At the core of “Makemation” are essential queries regarding access and privilege in technology. Who has the capability—both literally and figuratively—to engage in AI development? Who feels empowered to see themselves as technologists?
Zara’s journey transcends mere technical proficiency; it addresses the cultural expectations tied to gender, the challenges posed by economic instability, and the mental barriers that suggest technology is beyond the reach of many African girls. In this respect, the film discusses both digital and social infrastructure, highlighting the importance of mentorship, community support, and visible role models.
“Makemation” eschews a romanticised view of hardship, instead laying bare the structural constraints that shape technological opportunities. The film’s quality is evident not only in its compelling narrative but also in its cinematography—employing close-up shots and soft colour palettes to create an introspective atmosphere, with a deliberate pacing that allows the story to unfold naturally.
Ultimately, “Makemation” pushes back against the notion that significant advancements in AI can only happen within certain privileged contexts. Instead, it invites viewers to rethink who truly drives technological innovation and emphasises that African stories matter significantly in the global discourse on AI.
