A decade ago, discussing Naruto with Kenyan friends seemed unlikely, but today, anime is taking Kenya by storm. From cosplay events to movie screenings, Japanese animation has gained massive popularity, especially in Nairobi.

     It can be said that it all began with Samurai X in the ‘90s, but internet access introduced fans to Naruto, Bleach, and more. Now, events like Otamatsuri celebrate anime culture with cosplay, music, and Japanese food. Even local artists, like Ennaira, contribute to the scene with original songs such as “Watashi wa”. She is also a cosplayer that creates her own cosplays from scratch.

Here is a short interview with her to help understand the Anime culture in Nairobi better:

Q: What inspired you to start watching anime?
A: I was introduced to Spirited Away

Q: What do you think is so unique about anime that many are drawn to it?
A: It's very different from western animation. The fight scenes are more epic and sometimes there is a story behind it, where as western animation may feel more comedic or lighthearted depending on the genre. Asian productions feel like a story of life being told.

Q: How did you get into cosplay?
A: I saw my friends dressed up as Kuroko no Basket and I sneaked my way into the community and now I'm considered a trailblazer. There weren't that many cosplay opportunities in Kenya but Movie Jabber and outside photoshoots gave opportunities.

Q: What has been your favorite character to cosplay?
A: Chopper from One Piece. It’s a cosplay that I'm really proud of. Recently, it was Brook, also from One Piece, because of the musicality of it, and it felt like I was performing as Brook.

Q: What is the anime community like in Nairobi?
A: The anime community is so welcoming. Sometimes we can be judged, but most times a lot of people are just trying to get others on the anime they are watching. We as One Piecers are trying get others to watch the anime while the cosplayers always make interactions enjoyable. I love being part of the community because we have groups to support each other and when someone has something like a shoot or a show, people show up.

As anime’s influence grows, Kenya’s love for Japanese culture deepens, connecting fans across generations.