From Disney to Cartoon Network, global networks are investing in African kids’ shows.

From Disney to Cartoon Network, global networks are investing in African kids’ shows. As streaming services continue to prioritize diverse and inclusive causes, Disney+ is working with South Africa-based studio Triggerfish and animation creators in Africa for Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire, a 10-part anthology of original short films that will premiere globally in 2022. The title is inspired from the Swahili phrase kizazi cha moto, which translates to “fire generation.” Each film is 10 minutes long, and is an “animated sci-fi take” combining advanced tech, aliens, spirits, and monsters with Africa’s diverse history and culture. Meanwhile, Cartoon Network recently announced its first animated comedy series being produced in Africa, Garbage Boy and Trash Can, created by Nigerian animator Ridwan Moshood. Netflix and YouTube have also been investing in African creators with Mama K’s Team 4, Super Sema, Iwájú, Kiya and the Kimoja Heroes, and more, signaling the responsibility global networks have in producing kids’ content that not only represents, but is created by, diverse backgrounds. YPulse’s Representation in Action trend data shows that 48% of BIPOC Millennial parents have had their child watch a TV show/movie because it centered around their race/ethnicity. (Kidscreen, Quartz Africa)