In a momentous achievement for African storytelling, Zebra Comics, a well-known Cameroonian comic book publisher, has confirmed its participation in DC Comics' Joker: The World anthology. This partnership is a significant milestone for the African comic industry, as Zebra Comics is the first African studio to contribute to a major DC Comics production. The anthology, due out on September 17, 2024, depicts the Joker's destructive influence through the perspective of writers from 13 countries, including Japan, Spain, Turkey, and Cameroon. 

Zebra Comics' contribution, Black Therapy, delivers a moving story through the lens of African culture. Black Therapy, written by Ejob Gaius and illustrated by Bertrand Mbozo'o Zeh, delves into mental health. This problem is frequently overlooked in African discourse but has been reframed by the Joker's appearance. The story's setting, strongly established in Cameroonian society, offers a new perspective on how the Joker's chaotic temperament might mirror challenges many Africans experience.

Gaius, the writer of Black Therapy, expressed his excitement for the collaboration, emphasizing the significance of accurately reflecting Africa. "For us, it was crucial to portray our continent and our stories without falling into stereotypes," Gaius said. He emphasized that the narrative is about more than just bringing the Joker to Africa; it is about addressing subjects such as mental health with the nuance they deserve.

This collaboration with DC Comics is not just a big step forward for Zebra Comics, but also a validation of African talent in the worldwide comic book industry. Historically, African creators have had limited opportunities to present their work on worldwide venues, notably in popular Western comic franchises. Zebra Comics' involvement in Joker: The World paves the way for African stories and creators to be included and acknowledged.

The story in Black Therapy is more than just a creative effort; it signals a bigger trend in African media to take control of its storylines. The illustrator, Bertrand Mbozo'o Zeh, expressed his joy in witnessing African artistry in a DC Comics project. "This is a huge win for African creators," says Zeh. "It shows that our stories are valuable, and we have a unique voice that can stand strong in the global comic world."

Zebra Comics, founded in Cameroon, has long been committed to highlighting African experiences and perspectives through the comic book medium. Their participation in Joker: The World is not just a significant achievement for their studio, but also a wider endorsement of African talent. The team hopes that this would enable more African producers to engage in international collaborations and share their distinctive stories with a global audience.

The release of Joker: The World on September 17, 2024, is highly anticipated, and Zebra Comics is poised to leave its mark not only on DC's illustrious past but also on the future of African comic book storytelling. For Zebra Comics and its authors, this partnership marks the start of a new chapter in African comic book history. "We've shown that African stories can stand side by side with the best in the world," says Gaius. "Now we're eager to see what comes next, not just for Zebra Comics, but for the entire African creative industry."