South African actor and filmmaker Thabo Rametsi takes a bold stance on African history and gender roles with his new comic series, Imbokodo, released by Dark Horse Comics. Challenging Western narratives about patriarchy, Rametsi asserts that "patriarchy is not an African thing." His research uncovered evidence of over 2,000 African queens, with some leading battles on the frontlines—proof that powerful African women have long held leadership roles. This discovery inspired Imbokodo, a story that both honours and reclaims Africa’s history through a bold new medium.

Rametsi initially envisioned Imbokodo as a television series, but after consulting with Charlize Theron, he decided that beginning with comics would allow him to "do it right." Her guidance led him to Dark Horse Comics, who offered something rare in the industry: full creative control and ownership of the intellectual property. This autonomy, which Rametsi saw as essential to preserving the story’s authenticity, allowed him and co-writer Thabiso Mabanna, along with illustrator Katlego Motaung, to create a series that defies stereotypes and introduces readers to Africa’s true warrior queens.

"When Thabo and Thabiso from Nguniverse Studios first brought us this idea, we were so impressed with the epic scope and emotional depth of this world they created with such incredibly powerful female African warriors at the center,” Theron remarked. “As our company’s first foray into publishing, we couldn’t have asked for better creative partners than Thabo and Thabiso, and we can’t wait for the world to meet the indomitable warrior women of the Imbokodo."

Imbokodo, which translates to “large rock” and symbolizes women’s strength in Zulu, takes place in Ndawo, a fictional universe where gods (Badimu) and humans (Muntu) live in a delicate balance, periodically disrupted by war. Set against this backdrop, Queen Nyameka of the Mwenemutapa Empire commands an elite squad of female warriors to investigate the disturbing disappearance of young girls. The comic celebrates historic queens like Nzinga, Nehanda, and Modjadji while exploring themes of family, resilience, and conflict—echoing African history and resonating with contemporary audiences alike.

With Imbokodo, Rametsi and his team at Nguniverse have created a “love letter to African history,” spotlighting the power, legacy, and resilience of Africa’s legendary queens.

Sources: Dark Horse, Penguin Random House, BAI Heat Seekers, SNL24