Animation's Future In The Middle East Discussed At SAC 2025 Conference

The Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC) 2025 hosted a significant roundtable titled "Animation in MENA & Africa: Opportunities & Challenges." This session gathered key figures from the animation industry across the region to discuss its evolving landscape. Participants included Zümrüt Pakoy from Warner Bros Discovery, Abdulaziz Othman of ZEEZ Animation, Tariq Ali from ZANAD, Raymond Malinga of Creatures Animation Studio, and Damilola Solesi from Smids Animation Studios.

Warner Bros Discovery's Zümrüt Pakoy began by discussing the global demand for diverse content. She emphasised the importance of smart storytelling for children on networks like Cartoonito and Cartoon Network. "For our animation networks, Cartoonito and Cartoon Network, smart, fun storytelling is non-negotiable," she stated. Pakoy highlighted the need for diversity and inclusion in programming while ensuring cultural authenticity isn't compromised for wider appeal.

Abdulaziz Othman addressed the challenges of funding and commissioning in animation. He noted that animation's long shelf life makes it globally competitive. "Animation has a long shelf life and the competition is global," he said. To sustain this ecosystem, Othman suggested systemic solutions like grants and partnerships. He reflected on ZEEZ’s journey from small projects to acclaimed series such as ‘Nayerat’.

Tariq Ali, founder of Egypt's ZANAD studio, spoke about leveraging Egypt’s rich cinematic history for animation. "We’ve had a very strong film industry for decades and I think animation is the next wave," he asserted. Ali advocated for creating original intellectual properties (IPs) across various platforms while nurturing local talent. "We have the talent, we have the know-how; now we need the confidence to own our narratives," he declared.

Raymond Malinga shared insights on localised storytelling's power through his Ugandan studio’s work. His collaboration with Disney+ on ‘Herderboy’ showcased African narratives globally. "People need to realise that we are building our industry from scratch here," he remarked. Malinga highlighted how seeing relatable characters can inspire young Ugandan animators to dream bigger.

Damilola Solesi described Nigeria’s creative sector growth amidst challenges over her 15-year career. "Our population is young, ambitious, and wired for innovation," she noted about Nigeria’s youthful demographic. Despite difficulties in securing support and funding within Africa, Solesi sees immense potential in the industry.

Education as a Growth Foundation

Solesi emphasised education and mentorship as crucial for sustainable growth in Africa's animation sector. "Institutions that prioritise skills development and accessible training are the engines that will drive this industry forward," she explained. Through her studio, Solesi provides workshops to empower aspiring animators in Nigeria.

The conference underscored both opportunities and hurdles facing MENA and Africa's animation industries today. By fostering collaboration among regional leaders like Pakoy, Othman, Ali, Malinga, and Solesi, these sectors can continue evolving while maintaining cultural integrity.

With inputs from WAM