Kunda Kids, a children’s publishing EdTech and animation company focused on inspiring the next generation to learn about African culture and history, has recently raised $700,000 in its pre-seed round led by Zrosk Investment Management with participation from HoaQ, Voltron Capital, Argentil Capital, and Kaleo Ventures, together with angel investors Abi Ajayi, Chiamaka Ezenwa, Adetayo Bamiduro of MAX, and Benjamin Fernandes, CEO of Nala Money.
The London-based startup will utilize the fresh capital to build out its mobile app, enhancing capabilities, expanding its reach, and bringing the platform’s storytelling experiences to a broader audience.
Co-founded by Oladele Olafuyi and Louisa Olafuyi in 2020, Kunda Kids exists to transform children’s content and programming about Africa for the next generation. By showcasing various African history and cultural elements in creative, fun, and simple formats for kids, parents and educators can raise children to be global citizens with an understanding and appreciation for other cultures worldwide. The company’s mission is to create engaging and inspiring stories celebrating African culture and promoting essential soft skills such as self-confidence, teamwork, and kindness.
Commenting on the funding, Co-founder & CEO of Kunda Kids, Oladele Olafuyi, said:
I am thrilled to announce the successful closing of our pre-seed round. I couldn’t be more grateful for the inspiring investors who share our vision. This milestone allows us to launch Kunda & Friends and invest in exceptional creative talent across Africa. We are committed to bringing forth a new generation of African storytellers, and together, we will change the narrative.
The platform envisions a world where children of all backgrounds can see themselves represented in the stories they read. By infusing African culture into modern storylines with inspiring and adventurous characters, it hopes to positively impact children’s development and help bridge the gap between cultures.
Adding about the investment, Co-founder & COO of Kunda Kids, Louisa Olafuyi, said:
Our children deserve to learn more about Africa’s rich and diverse heritage, and our ambition is to provide quality stories in various formats to children worldwide. Children need to see themselves and others represented in world-class stories and content. By nurturing a sense of pride and belonging, We empower them to grow up as confident, culturally-aware individuals who will shape.
Kunda Kids claims to have sold over 25,000 books, and its app has been downloaded in over 130 countries. Its app features children’s stories, audiobooks, and African language learning animations. The firm strongly believes in promoting diversity and inclusion in children’s literature and media.