What to know about Iwaju, first Disney animation series in Nigeria
What to know about Iwaju, first Disney animation series in Nigeria
Iwaju is set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria, and narrates a coming-of-age tale that tracks the journey of Tola, a young girl from the wealthy island, and her best friend, Kole, a self-taught tech expert, as they uncover the secrets and perils concealed in their contrasting worlds.
The six-episode series delves into themes such as financial class relations, the menace of kidnapping, familial bonds, childlike curiosity, and more.
Here are things to know:
Production
The movie is Disney’s first collaboration with an outside studio in 100 years. Iwaju is in partnership with Kugali, a comic book studio and pan-African entertainment company. It is also an original property rather than a continuation of a preexisting film.
Setting
Iwaju in Yoruba means ‘future’ which translates to anticipation of a time or period yet to come, which is evident in the movie. It also takes a different turn from earlier animated series or movies, as it is set in a real place and not a fictional community or place.
Voicing
Some of the voice actors for Iwaju include Nollywood’s Femi Branch, Bisola Aiyeola, and Shaffy Bello. Others are Ayo Okeniyi, Simisola Gbadamosi, Siji Soetan, British-Nigerian actress, Weruche Opia, Obi Maduegbuna, Kehinde Bankole, Chioma Omeruah, Tosin Oshinaike, and Lala Akindoju, who doubles as the casting director.
The reality of Lagos life
Iwaju depicts the reality of life in Lagos between the haves and have-nots. It sheds a spotlight on Tola, a privileged young girl from the island, while Kole is an enterprising young boy with his heart in the right place.
Where to watch
For a series made by Nigerians, Iwájú will not be immediately available to watch in Nigeria because Disney+ isn’t available in the country.
In 2022, Disney+ was launched in 60 different countries, including South Africa and Algeria, marking its entry into the African market. However, many African countries still do not have access to the platform, highlighting a broader trend where several streaming services have limited availability in Africa.
