We are excited to share that International Animation Day 2024 in Nairobi was a remarkable gathering of creative minds and visionaries, celebrating the rich heritage and forward-thinking future of animation. This year’s event, hosted at the Alliance Française, featured an insightful panel discussion titled “The Future of Animation: Harnessing AI in Creative Practice.”

Renowned speaker Irmak Atabek, joined by industry expert Jeff Mandela and moderated by Sarah Mallia, cofounder and creative producer at Pungulu Pa Productions, brought compelling perspectives on how AI is shaping the world of animation. The discussion explored the transformative power of AI in creative workflows, enabling animators to innovate and express complex, culturally rooted stories in new and profound ways.

For Africa, where storytelling holds deep cultural importance, International Animation Day stands as a testament to the continent’s growing influence in global animation. This year’s panel not only highlighted advancements but also celebrated the region’s potential to inspire and connect through authentic, technology-enhanced narratives.