The purpose of the children’s literary universe is more than just to entertain; it should educate, raise awareness and reflect a nation’s rich cultural context. It was with this premise that "Kioni, A Pequena Mandingueira" was born, an innovative literary project centred on celebrating Mozambican culture and promoting sustainable values. It is a series in which Mozambique’s rich cultural diversity is a constant. From the small village where the story unfolds, through the characters’ daily interactions, to the details in the illustrations, everything breathes Mozambican identity.
About seven years ago, Kioni’s creator, Joana Vasconcelos, identified a gap in children’s and young people’s literature relating to capoeira, an art developed by descendants of African slaves in Brazil, with which she had a deep relationship spanning more than two decades. While capoeira brings together movement, musicality, playfulness and a powerful historical heritage, literature lacked stories that portrayed the concepts so intrinsic to this art: respect, sharing, friendship, ancestry. And so the desire was born to create a literary work that did justice to such richness. The pause imposed by the covid-19 pandemic turned out to be the perfect opportunity to bring the project to life. In 40 days, the creator developed a complete collection of eight books that dive into the enchanting universe of Kioni, a little mandingueira who would become an icon for children in Mozambique and beyond its borders. Kioni represents Mozambican identity, the rediscovery of traditional games, and the importance of friendship, sharing and respect. Unlike conventional superheroes who fly or wield magic swords, Kioni’s strength lies in her essence, representing the inner strength that resides in every child.
And how do you measure the impact of a project like this? The reception of the work was clear and varied. Immediately, everything from rag dolls made in Kioni’s likeness and schools adapting the stories into plays to the adoption of a Kioni theme for birthday parties appeared. This affection from the public is conclusive proof of the project’s success and relevance. The work has gone beyond Mozambique’s borders, having been translated into French and sold in countries such as France and Switzerland.
"Kioni, A Pequena Mandingueira" is not limited to reading. The project was designed to be an immersive experience that extends to music, traditional games and storytelling sessions, providing a range of educational and recreational activities. The character’s universe opens the way to exploring capoeira, traditional Mozambican play and a connection with the country’s rich cultural tapestry. With the support of partners such as the Ministry of Culture, Livraria Sequoia, the Brazil-Mozambique Cultural Centre, the Embassy of Ireland and UNICEF, Kioni has become more than a book, turning into a tool for addressing relevant social issues, promoting literacy and celebrating Mozambican culture.
But the project’s success and innovation did not come without challenges. Plunging into the literary world, juggling a daily routine and dealing with uncertainty are challenges that every creator faces; even so, the affection and support of the community – a true "village" that came together around Kioni – were essential in overcoming these barriers.
And the future? Kioni’s fans can look forward to more adventures and discoveries. Of the eight books planned, only two have been released, which means many more stories and lessons are to come. Kioni is, without a doubt, a literary journey that promises to go on enriching, educating and inspiring. And, as in a capoeira roda, the movement does not stop; it only changes rhythm and direction, carrying with it the passion and purpose of sharing Mozambican culture with the world.
