Deadline: 24-Oct-2025
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will launch the “Animation Programming for the timbuktoo Creatives Hub in Cape Town” in November 2025 in South Africa to strengthen the country’s independent animation ecosystem by training 20 animators over six months through mentorship, production support, and storytelling rooted in authentic African culture.
The programme aims to strengthen South Africa’s independent animation ecosystem by supporting creators to produce original, culturally grounded animation content that amplifies African stories and enhances the country’s contribution to the regional creative economy. Its specific objectives are to build the capacity of 20 independent animators through training, mentorship, and technical support; support participants to design and produce high-quality prototypes, short films, or pilots; pilot and refine the timbuktoo Creatives Hub’s programming model for animation; facilitate connections with animation studios, distributors, festivals, and digital platforms; promote inclusive participation by prioritising independent creators whose work reflects Africa’s cultural diversity, languages, and artistic traditions; and support each participating animator to develop and produce a one-minute animation that tells an authentic African story, introducing an award component to recognise outstanding storytelling, creativity, and technical execution.
The project responds to the rapid growth of the global animation industry, valued at over USD 400 billion, and the increasing demand in Africa for locally produced animation that reflects regional identities and cultural heritage. Despite South Africa’s leadership in this sector, many independent animators remain outside formal networks and lack access to mentorship, funding, or production resources. The timbuktoo Creatives Hub, as part of UNDP’s innovation ecosystem, provides a platform to close this gap by nurturing young animators through a comprehensive training and production model.
The selected implementing organisation will design and deliver a structured animation support programme that combines creative training, technical development, and entrepreneurial mentorship. Participants will receive support to conceptualise and produce short animations rooted in African storytelling traditions while learning about business modelling, intellectual property management, and creative monetisation. Mentors and industry professionals will guide participants throughout the production process, ensuring technical quality and narrative depth.
A major highlight of the programme will be the showcase event, where participants will present their short films to studios, investors, and distributors. The event will also create market access opportunities through a digital exhibition and portfolio of participant projects. These platforms will enhance visibility for emerging animators and encourage collaboration within the African creative industry.
The implementing partner must demonstrate strong experience in creative industry programming, entrepreneurship development, and animation production, alongside a deep understanding of African storytelling. Teams will include experts in animation, narrative development, mentorship, and monitoring and evaluation. The project will be monitored through detailed reporting, ensuring that outcomes align with the broader goals of the timbuktoo initiative — building Africa’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem across creative sectors.
For more information, visit UNDP.