About Tunga
Our work begins with a story, and with the belief that stories can shape how we learn, understand one another, and imagine our futures. We bring African films into learning spaces to affirm identity and strengthen Pan-African understanding.
Origins & Context
For too long, African films have existed on the margins of educational discourse; seen as cultural artefacts or entertainment, but rarely as structured tools for learning and dialogue. The narratives, perspectives, and lived experiences captured in African films remained fragmented across festivals, limited distribution channels, and inaccessible platforms.
Tunga emerged as a response to these challenges. We recognised a fundamental gap: the absence of a dedicated platform that positions African films as intentional educational resources; films that can shape identity, foster critical thinking, and strengthen Pan-African consciousness across borders and generations.
What began as a question, ‘How can African films be better integrated into education?’, evolved into a commitment to create meaningful pathways for filmmakers’ work to be seen, studied, discussed, and valued. Tunga sits at the intersection of film, education, and impact, contributing to a stronger, more connected African film ecosystem.
Our Mission
To integrate African films into education as meaningful learning resources that support critical thinking, cultural understanding, and dialogue across schools and tertiary institutions.
Our Vision
A future where African stories are central to learning across the continent, enabling students to see themselves reflected in what they study, and strengthening Pan-Africanism.
Our Values
African-Centred Perspective
We believe African stories should be told, shared, and interpreted on African terms. Our platform centres African voices, contexts, and perspectives, presenting films with the cultural and historical depth they deserve.
Education-First Mindset
Every film on Tunga is selected and contextualised for its educational value. We see films not only as entertainment but as a powerful tool for learning, critical thinking, and dialogue.
Collaboration & Partnership
We work closely with filmmakers, learning institutions, educators and cultural organisations to ensure stories are shared responsibly, and rights holders are respected. Tunga exists to support and strengthen the broader African film ecosystem.
Integrity & Authenticity
We are committed to honest curation, transparent partnerships, and authentic storytelling. Every film we select and partnership we form reflects our responsibility to African storytelling and the communities it represents.
Our Journey
From vision to impact, every step shapes our story
2020
Once Upon a Question
It started with a simple thought: African films carry stories, history, and truth; so why do they disappear after the credits roll? That question pulled us into conversations with educators, filmmakers and culture folks. This is how the Tunga story began.
2021
We Took the Story for a Test Run
We curated our first films and shared them in learning spaces. Through screenings and dialogue with educators and filmmakers, we saw how films - when thoughtfully contextualised - can become powerful learning tools.
2022
We Found Our Rhythm
We focused on how films really work in education. We developed lesson plans, shaped thoughtful ways of working with filmmakers, and began connecting stories more intentionally to teaching and learning outcomes.
2023
We Turned Up the Volume
We built our first platform and took the work deeper into learning spaces. Through programmes focused on social change, we were on the ground, screening films, listening closely, and learning alongside students and teachers.
2024
We Expanded the Stage
We expanded the catalogue, collaborated with more educators, and deepened partnerships across the ecosystem. This was a year of building the structures that support films in classrooms and readying the platform for wider institutional access.
2025
We Opened the Doors
We shifted from pilots to adoption, launching Tunga for tertiary institutions and refining our subscription model. This year also marked the introduction of film literacy training for teachers, supporting curriculum pathways in film and filmmaking.
2026
The Story Continues
We're growing across Africa, expanding access while deepening impact. More films, more educators, more learning resources, more institutions. Our focus remains on embedding African stories into learning - thoughtfully and at scale.
Our Team
Tunga is built by people who care deeply about African stories, learning, and impact. Working at the intersection of education, film, and culture, we bring together experience in storytelling, impact work, education, and platform development.
Guided by intention and care, we collaborate closely with educators, filmmakers, and partners across the continent, learning as we go and shaping a platform that serves students and educators, while honouring African stories and the communities they come from.
Cindy Makandi
Founder | Chief Executive Officer
Dennis Muticia
Co-Founder | Chief Technology Officer
Mike Odi
Co-Founder | Chief Design Officer
Grace Murithi
Film Acquisitions Manager
Ian Irari
Chief Legal Officer
Purity Chebet
Programmes Manager
