In Mermaids of Africa, award-winning filmmaker William Collinson explores the ancient and mystical world of African mermaids—water spirits revered across the continent for their profound spiritual significance. These beings, often referred to as “Water Spirits,” are deeply woven into African folklore, believed to possess both beauty and danger, life and death. Frequently depicted with the lower body of a fish, these creatures appear as true mermaids, bridging the realms of the natural and supernatural.
This captivating documentary uncovers the rich lore surrounding water spirits such as the Mamlambo in South Africa, the Kaaiman from Afrikaans folklore, and the Mamogashoa of the Sotho people. Each spirit holds unique meanings—blessings, fertility, misfortune, and protection—highlighting the deep cultural and spiritual reverence for these mystical beings.
From the Njuzu of Zimbabwe to the sacred rivers and mystical lakes of the continent, the documentary explores local reports of sightings and the belief in these powerful beings’ ability to shape-shift and communicate with humans. With stunning visuals and compelling narratives, Mermaids of Africa invites viewers into a world where myth, culture, and spirituality converge, leaving you in awe of the mystical beings that continue to inspire and shape African belief systems.