CYCIL JOJO ABBAN DIRECTS GHANA’S EPIC ANIMATED FILM ON ASANTE HISTORY

Accra — Award Winning Cycil Jojo Abban’s progressive push to tell authentic African stories through animation hits another milestone — an epic Asante history feature that’s helping build Ghana’s animation industry, one frame at a time.

The film, "Opemsuo Osei Tutu I, Birth of An Empire" will explore key moments in the formation of the Asante Kingdom, from the rise of Nana Osei Tutu I to the forging of Asanteman under the Golden Stool.

Produced by Parables Animation Studios in collaboration with the Manhyia Palace Museum, the film blends historical research with cinematic storytelling aimed at both local and global audiences.

Abban is no stranger to breaking grounds in Ghana. He directed "Ananse Must Die," Ghana’s first animated feature film, which put local folklore on the map in 2007. He also helmed "28th The Crossroads," (2009/2022) another animated feature that told a landmark historical moment in Ghana’s journey towards independence. Additionally, he's directed countless shorts and series all geared towards creating something authentic and unique.

ananse must die

the crossroads

With over a decade in the industry, Abban has become one of the country’s most consistent voices in animation — building stories rooted in Ghanaian culture, language, and identity. For Abban, this project is personal. “History has been my passion since primary school,” he said. “I used to sit behind Tv sets watching cartoon shows wondering why we didn’t have our own kings and queens on screen the way other countries do. This film is my answer."

He emphasized the cultural responsibility behind the work. “We are preserving a rich African history and culture that deserves to be seen and celebrated. My hope is that this film becomes an asset to students, a visual companion that supplements what they learn in class and brings those lessons to life.

The production is being developed in collaboration with the Manhyia Palace Museum to ensure accuracy in story, architecture, language, and oral tradition.

While a release date has not been disclosed, the team says early concept art and voice casting will be shared along the way on the studios social media handles.

The film is expected to serve both entertainment and educational purposes, with plans for school screenings across Ghana.

For Abban, the goal is clear: tell African stories with African excellence, and give the next generation heroes they can recognize.

Piawww!

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