Iwájú (2024) — A Groundbreaking Africanfuturist Animated Series 9jarocks

Iwájú, meaning “the future” in Yoruba, is a six-episode animated sci-fi miniseries crafted by Walt Disney Animation Studios in collaboration with Kugali Media, a Pan-African creative powerhouse. Released on Disney+ in February 2024, it marks Disney’s first original long-form animated series and stands as a powerful celebration of African storytelling.

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Story & Concept

Set in a vibrant, futuristic Lagos, the story follows Tola, a sheltered girl from the affluent island, and her best friend Kole, a brilliant tech-savvy boy from the mainland. Together, they discover hidden dangers and mysterious secrets that underscore Lagos’s stark economic and social divides.

The narrative intricately explores themes of class disparity, city tensions, and the duality of future possibilities, all while offering a rich tapestry of Yoruba culture, with dialogues in English, Nigerian Pidgin, and popular Yoruba phrases.

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Production & Creative Team

Iwájú is helmed by Nigerian director Olufikayo Adeola, with screenplay by Adeola and Halima Hudson, and story contributions from Hamid Ibrahim and Toluwalakin Olowofoyeku (cultural consultant). The series showcases a fully realized Afrocentric vision, brought to life with stunning art direction and animation.

It premiered in Lagos, followed by a London gala, before launching worldwide on Disney+—and later broadcast across Africa via DStv’s Disney Channel.

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Cast & Voices

The vibrant voice cast includes:

• Simisola Gbadamosi as Tola

• Siji Soetan as Kole

• Femi Branch

• Dayo Okeniyi

• Bisola Aiyeola

• Weruche Opia

• Ireti Doyle

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Reception & Impact

• Cultural Milestone: Celebrated as the first African animated series produced with Disney, it’s a significant leap for African representation in global animation.

• Awards Recognition: Garnered three nominations at the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Animated Series, Outstanding Directing, and Simisola Gbadamosi for Younger Voice Performer.

• Viewer Buzz: Fans praised its Afrofuturist aesthetic, storytelling depth, and cultural authenticity, with strong representation of Lagos, Nigerian food, and local languages.

Some viewers noted frustration that Nigeria initially lacked access to Disney+, though DStv broadcasts helped bridge that gap.

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Quick Overview

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Final Thoughts

Iwájú isn’t just animation—it’s a cultural landmark, offering a bold and vibrant future for African storytelling. Its fusion of futuristic aesthetics, cultural pride, and smart narratives makes it a must-watch for fans of creative, meaningful animation.