Isolele Introduces Comic Series Blending Congolese History with Fictional Storytelling

Globe and Mail

19-05-2025

Zaiire comic series by Isolele connects Congolese history, royalty, and myth with modern African narratives.
Isolele, a creative media brand based in Beverly Hills, California, is drawing attention for its latest project, Zaiire: The Prince of Kongo and the Necklace of Destiny. The comic series presents a fictional African prince whose story is rooted in historical and cultural elements from the Congo. At its center is Zaiire, a young boy from Kinshasa, navigating the contrast between inherited privilege and the challenges faced by his people.
Zaiire's story introduces readers to a fictional artifact known as the Necklace of Destiny, passed down through generations of Congolese royalty. As the plot develops, the character leaves his wealthy surroundings to reconnect with his mother in Kinshasa's slums. This encounter sets him on a path where he learns about his lineage and is called to protect his homeland.
The comic weaves fictional and historical figures, referencing individuals like Patrice Lumumba, who is portrayed as the 'African Panther,' and Ganga Zumba, a real-life escaped slave who led Brazil's Quilombo dos Palmares. The series also introduces Jameela, a character inspired by Queen Califia of California folklore, and Captain Africa, who bears a shield inscribed with the Ethiopian term 'Negus,' historically associated with regional leadership.
The fictional city of Isolele is prominently featured in the series. Designed using references to architecture from across the African continent, it aims to reflect a blend of traditions and present-day aesthetics. According to the creators, these design choices were made to bring African identity into a visual and modern context without losing touch with its origins.
The founder of Isolele, HRM King Kufulula, also known as The Lion of Congo, is a Kinshasa-born author and entrepreneur. His background includes experiences of exile and homelessness in the United States, followed by efforts in investment and storytelling. Through his nonprofit organizations Focus Congo and We Love Congo, King Kufulula supports people affected by conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Beyond entertainment, the comic also touches on historical and socio-political themes. It references Congo's connection to key events in global history, such as the Shinkolobwe mine's role in supplying uranium used in early nuclear weapons development. It also comments on the country's mineral wealth, including its cobalt reserves, drawing parallels with fictional elements like vibranium from the Marvel universe.
Zaiire is part of a broader effort to encourage cultural engagement and expand the portrayal of African identities through modern media. According to Isolele, plans are in place to make the series accessible to an international audience through translations and partnerships with artists across the African diaspora.
As the comic prepares for wider release, Isolele emphasizes its focus on African storytelling, to supporting local creative talent, and building narratives that connect both historical context and contemporary experiences. While the comic remains fictional, it draws heavily from real-world history and cultural perspectives to shape its content.
Users can visit the official website, https://www.isolele.com for any media or commercial inquiries.
Isolele is a creative media company focused on telling African stories through comics and animation. The brand centers its work on historical and cultural themes from the continent, particularly the Congo.