At a launch event hosted by Ubuntu Creative Hub, U.S. Ambassador Christopher J. Lamora addressed the official unveiling of "Superman: The World," an anthology resulting from a collaboration between Zebra Comics of Cameroon and DC Comics of the United States. The gathering highlighted the joint effort that brought together Cameroonian and American creators to tell stories featuring both Epasa Moto, a figure from Cameroonian folklore, and Superman.
"Today, we are celebrating a remarkable achievement: the collaboration between Zebra Comics of Cameroon and DC Comics of the United States, the crossover of two heroes, Epasa Moto, Cameroon’s legendary guardian, and Superman, America’s symbol of hope. This milestone shows that Cameroon is not only a consumer of global stories, but also a creator, bringing Cameroonian voices and perspectives to one of the world’s most iconic heroes. On behalf of the United States, I want to congratulate this team for bringing bold imagination and extraordinary talent to life," Lamora said.
The ambassador noted that this creative partnership reflects values central to America250, marking 250 years since U.S. independence. He emphasized how creativity serves as a bridge connecting cultures and generating new opportunities across countries.
Lamora pointed out that storytelling has long been integral to African culture through various forms such as folktales, proverbs, songs, dances, and griots who preserve histories orally.
He drew parallels between Superman's origins during America's Great Depression—a time when stories like those of Clark Kent encouraged belief in individual potential—and similar themes found in Cameroonian folklore such as Ma’antah from Sense Pass King.
"The United States is committed to deepening exchanges in the creative arts, not only for cultural diplomacy but also as commercial diplomacy. The creative industry is not just about imagination: it’s also about jobs, innovation, and investment. Comics, film, music, dance, and fashion are sectors in which Africa has an enormous reservoir of talent, most of which remains untapped or unknown on the global stage. But by breaking through that unseen barrier and making themselves better known to the wider world, they can drive prosperity, empower communities, and put Cameroon on the map in exciting new ways," he stated.
Lamora referenced his participation earlier this year at the Cameroon International Film Festival in Buea where he discussed film's impact alongside local officials during a session that included screening “Superman Doesn’t Steal,” directed by Tamika Lamison.
He highlighted how U.S.-sponsored programs such as the Mandela Washington Fellowship have enabled individuals like Nathanael Ejob—an alumnus who studied at the University of Texas at Austin—to lead initiatives like Zebra Comics’ latest project upon returning home.
"Similarly, U.S. universities create space for emerging leaders to shine. Every year, thousands of African students pursue higher education in the United States... From animation and creative writing to film production... American universities offer world-class programs... Creative entrepreneurs can learn from U.S. excellence... build businesses that compete internationally. Zebra Comics is proof that global success can be created right here in Cameroon," Lamora said.
He called on stakeholders from government to civil society to support investment in Africa’s creative industries given their potential economic impact.
"Zebra Comics and DC Comics are showing us that young African entrepreneurs can author global icons... Their journey inspires us to imagine what more is possible if we continue to invest in talent... Congratulations once again to you and your entire team."
Lamora concluded by emphasizing that this launch represents not only a new Superman story but also another chapter in U.S.-Cameroon partnership focused on creativity and shared progress.