Sondeka, which means create, began as a festival I founded in 2013 and has continuously evolved over the years. In 2021, we ventured into creating an alternate reality world with the first-of-its-kind online festival called Sondeka ALT. During the programming, we introduced an alternate reality game in the form of a publication titled Ole Sondeka vs. Bw. Stache and the Counter Creativity Unit. This game is based on the origin story of Sondeka's mascot, Ole Sondeka. Players are encouraged to solve puzzles in the real world based off clues within the publication, and interact with Fudi to trace the location of Ole Sondeka and save creativity from the villain, Bwana Stache.
Ole Sondeka has been our mascot since 2013, transitioning from an illustration to a live-action character. Our aim was to blend the real world with the digital realm, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. This edition serves as a subversive creative piece, with Bwana Stache representing Ezekiel Mutua, who was then heading the Kenya Film Classification Board. During his tenure, many films, especially those with LGBTQ content, were banned, and Netflix Africa signed an agreement halting the streaming of LGBTQ-specific movies in compliance with local laws.
We created this piece of work as a counter to the stifling of human rights and the right to free speech.
Interestingly, we are probably the only ones holding KFCB certificates for LGBTQ content. Want to know how we did it? Buy me lunch, and I’ll share a story you won't believe!
Ole Sondeka Vs Bw. Stache
And the Counter Creativity Unit
And the Counter Creativity Unit
Volume one
In this intriguing narrative, The Stache and his team hold a position of authority and influence within the creative industry. Their power is backed by higher authorities, allowing them to dictate the actions and behaviours of creatives. Those who refuse to comply with their demands face repercussions, such as being targeted on social media or entangled in legal battles.
Meanwhile, Ole Fudi, also known as The Mechanic, has resided in Nairobi on a parallel version of Earth for ten years. During this time,he has been actively engaged with the creative community, working closely with local talents. As an agent of S0nd3k4 Alt, his responsibilities extend beyond supporting creatives. He is also tasked with monitoring and assessing the state of creativity in the area.
Ole Sondeka Vs Bw. Stache And the Counter Creativity Unit
was republished in The Next Renaissance (EU) for the EU Market
Ole Sondeka (Circa 2014)
Ole Sondeka (Circa 2021)
Concept and Script - Thayù
Editor and co-creator - Adam Kiboi
Photography - Ronny Onkeo
Colouring, Design and Layout - Thayù
Ole Sondeka: @mutu_flani
Future Maasai: Fidel Yang
Wardrobe and Stylist: LUCA
Ass. Styling: Edwin Ongong'a
Lighting and Gaffer: Anthony Nderitu
Ole Sondeka 2014 illustration - Scadden Orina
Ole Sondeka 2021 illustration - J.R Pencil
Motion Graphics - Adam Paps
Alternate World - Arafa and Kevin
Check out the Alternative world we built
