Family Watch: "Twende", the boda boda-driving pangolin on Showmax

2023 has been a good year for African animation. The latest offering is "Twende," a groundbreaking 2D animated series featuring a unique protagonist—a boda boda-driving pangolin. Premiering on Showmax on December 4, this series takes a delightful approach to shed light on the critical issue of pangolin trafficking, emphasizing awareness in a kid-friendly manner.

Pangolins, the world's most trafficked animals and an endangered species, find an animated advocate in Twende, the slowest-moving creature in the Savannah. Set in a fictional East African city, the show boasts an all-Kenyan voice cast, spearheaded by Junior Nyong'o and June Gachui, lending authenticity to the narrative.

The animated venture has already gained international recognition, with its pilot screening in competition at Annecy, the renowned animation festival. Twende is not only a creative breakthrough but also a collaborative effort, featuring talents like Greig Cameron, director of Seal Team, Malenga Mulendema, creator of Supa Team 4, and Vanessa Kanu, screenwriter of Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire.

The all-Kenyan voice cast also includes Charles Ouda (Crime and Justice) as showy stunt driver Kimbe and Mkamzee Mwatela (Mali) as Boss's rival, Madam Mongoose, CEO of the evil tech empire Goober. Also listen out for Kalasha Awards winner Nyokabi Macharia (Super Sema), Joyce Musoke (Second Family) and seasoned voice actor and director Khaemba W. Edward (Ogas at the Top, The XYZ Show).

Produced by Braintrust in London and Mind's Eye Creative in Johannesburg, Twende represents a fusion of global expertise and African creativity. Showmax has unveiled an endearing trailer, giving audiences a glimpse into the vibrant world of Twende and setting the stage for a compelling narrative that combines entertainment with a crucial conservation message.