Watch Afripedia

Afripedia is a documentary series that explores the artistic and cultural landscape of contemporary Africa. The show is produced by Red Bull TV and features a diverse range of artists, musicians, filmmakers, and cultural activists from across the continent. Each episode of Afripedia focuses on a specific city or country, showcasing the unique perspectives and creative expressions of its inhabitants. From hip-hop in Senegal to fashion in Kenya, the series highlights the richness and diversity of African culture, while also addressing the social and political issues that impact people's lives.

One of the strengths of Afripedia is its ability to showcase the intersection of traditional and modern African culture. The show features musicians who fuse traditional instruments and rhythms with contemporary styles, such as electro or jazz. For example, in the episode on Dakar, viewers are introduced to the music collective FOKN Bois, whose work combines hip-hop beats with Senegalese sabar drumming and lyrics in local languages.

Beyond music, Afripedia also explores the visual arts, including photography, painting, and street art. In the episode on Johannesburg, viewers meet trailblazing photographer Zanele Muholi, who uses her art to challenge traditional gender and sexual norms in South Africa. Meanwhile, the episode on Kinshasa features street artists who use graffiti to highlight social and political issues in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Through its focus on African cultural producers and activists, Afripedia also explores the ways in which art intersects with social justice and political resistance. For example, the episode on Lagos features a collective of female filmmakers who use their art to challenge gender norms and promote women's empowerment. Meanwhile, in the episode on Accra, viewers are introduced to cultural activist Napoleon Habeenzu, who uses fashion to raise awareness about issues like climate change and social inequality.

Overall, Afripedia is a visually stunning and intellectually engaging series that provides an important platform for African cultural producers and activists. By showcasing the vibrant and diverse arts scenes that exist across the continent, the show challenges Western stereotypes of Africa as a monolithic and impoverished place. At the same time, Afripedia also highlights the social and political issues that continue to impact people's lives, while showcasing the resilience and creativity of those who are fighting for change.