Karen-Happuch has made history as the first woman in Ghana to produce an animated film, marking a groundbreaking achievement with her project “Abrefi Kɔtɔ.”
Her innovative work has achieved significant success, with three consecutive screenings at Silverbird Cinemas in Accra selling out, solidifying its place in the Ghanaian film industry and highlighting the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated animation field.
Drawing inspiration from Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” tells the empowering tale of a young woman in the ancient Asante Kingdom who defies societal expectations and challenges the norms. The film’s compelling narrative resonates across generations, emphasizing the importance of female empowerment and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Since 2017, Karen-Happuch has been establishing herself in the animation world, and “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” has garnered significant international recognition.
The film was selected for the prestigious Anim’Ato Mada 2022 residency in Madagascar and was honored as one of the standout African animation projects at the 2023 Annecy International Animation Film Festival’s MIFA pitch session.
This remarkable success puts Ghana on the global map as a centre for innovative storytelling. As one of only eight global projects featured by the Annecy Animation Film Festival, MIFA, and Kickstarter in 2023, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” stands as the sole representative from West Africa.
The project’s impactful Kickstarter campaign, supported by a global community, further underscores its international influence.
Despite facing numerous obstacles, including limited resources and a lack of professional equipment, Karen-Happuch and her team at KHPH Studios persevered. Their unwavering dedication and passion for animation brought “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” to life. By shattering the glass ceiling to release an animation film and premiere it at the cinemas, Karen-Happuch has inspired countless young people to pursue their creative dreams.
The overwhelming response of Ghanaians to “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” is a testament to the growing demand for diverse and culturally relevant storytelling.
As the film continues to gain international recognition, it has the potential to inspire and empower audiences worldwide. With dreams of producing a full series, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” is poised to become a global phenomenon, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of Ghanaian filmmakers.