Uganda’s animation “Kunda & Friends” shines at US superstars Ashanti & Nelly’s son birthday

Kunda & Friends, a Ugandan 3D animated series, took centre stage at the first birthday celebration of KK, the son of Grammy award-winning superstars Ashanti and Nelly, in New York.

Rooted in African culture and storytelling, Kunda & Friends is a music-led 3D animated series created by Kunda Kids, a Ugandan-led media company founded by Louisa Olafuyi.

The series is produced in collaboration with Creatures Animation, the Kampala-based studio led by former Disney director Raymond Malinga.

“It’s incredible to see a show we built in Uganda being celebrated around the world,” said Olafuyi.

“Knowing that a child in New York, London, or Lagos can sing along with characters born right here in Kampala is the dream. This is a call to all Ugandans to invest in and champion the incredible creative potential we have in this country.”

As part of the birthday festivities, Kunda Kids and Creatures Animation created a custom animated episode, Happy Birthday KK, which premiered at the party and is now available on the Kunda & Friends YouTube channel.

The short features KK as a character in the Kunda universe, alongside animated versions of Ashanti and Nelly.

Ashanti shared her excitement: “As a mom, I’m really intentional about what KK is exposed to. Kunda & Friends is not just beautiful and educational, it’s rooted in culture and storytelling that matters. Watching my son light up seeing himself in that world was magical. This is the kind of content I want him to grow up with, and I’m so thankful to Louisa and her team for making it so special.”

The star-studded event also featured LL Cool J, singer Lloyd, and other entertainment figures. Children at the party enjoyed music, storytelling, and Kunda & Friends-themed activities.

Guests received gift boxes filled with Ugandan-made books, party goodies, and merchandise celebrating African heritage. The milestone marks the first time a Ugandan children’s animated series has reached such global cultural recognition.

Kunda Kids continues to grow a worldwide audience, boasting over 50 million YouTube views, content in more than 400 schools, and a strong merchandise line.