Kenyan filmmaker Reuben Odanga, celebrated for his hit telenovela Selina and debut feature film Nafsi, is set to premiere his latest series, Mo-Faya, on Netflix. The seven-part drama will debut globally on December 20, 2024, marking a significant milestone for Kenya’s burgeoning film industry.
Mo-Faya is a gripping blend of drama and telenovela, primarily set in Nairobi, with rare cinematic glimpses into Western Kenya. The series centers on Zawadie, a young woman whose quest for a new life with her boyfriend, Brian, is upended by startling family secrets and Brian’s clandestine ties to a criminal underworld.
The show boasts a dynamic cast led by Lorna Lemi (Nairobby) and Brahim Ouma (Pepeta), alongside fresh talents Tobit Tom and Mathew Ngugi. They are joined by seasoned actors Alex Mwakideu (Nafsi), Blessing Lung’aho (Country Queen), Basil Mungai (Kina), Tessy Njine (Selina), and media personality Cate Rira.
Odanga, known for his nuanced storytelling and focus on social issues, emphasizes the realism and emotional depth of Mo-Faya.
“Mo-Faya is raw and grounded in realism, reflecting who we are beyond the filters of social media. The show underscores the importance of present and responsible parenting as the cornerstone for raising wholesome individuals who shape the future citizenry,” Odanga said.
The series is produced by Multan Production, a Nairobi-based company recognized for its award-winning Swahili telenovelas like Saida, Nira, and the long-running Selina. Executive producers Jacqueline Musyoka and Odanga, along with producer Margaret Wanjiru Muriithi, have collaborated with writer Edijoh Mwaniki (Lost in Time) to bring the story to life. The series is distributed by Okada Media.
For Odanga, Mo-Faya marks his first series on Netflix, following the streaming platform’s release of Nafsi in 2022. It is also the first Kenyan series to premiere on Netflix since Tosh Gitonga’s Volume in December 2023.
The arrival of Mo-Faya on Netflix highlights the growing global recognition of Kenyan filmmakers and the country’s dynamic creative industry.
As Multan Production continues to champion authentic African stories, Mo-Faya is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with its raw emotion, compelling characters, and a storyline that navigates the complexities of family, love, and identity.