Top Kenyan Movies and Series to Watch in 2025: From ‘Nairobi Half Life 2’ to ‘Mo-Faya’
A new era of Kenyan storytelling on Netflix, Showmax, and YouTube
Kenya’s screen industry is thriving in 2025, as talented directors, writers, and performers craft original content that speaks to the realities and dreams of a changing nation. From street-smart crime thrillers and romantic dramas to inspiring journeys and sharp comedies, local productions are hitting new creative heights. Whether you’re streaming on Showmax, Netflix, or YouTube, here’s a selection of the most compelling Kenyan movies and series to binge this year.
1. Nairobi Half Life 2 – Showmax
A gritty follow-up to the iconic 2012 film, Nairobi Half Life 2 revisits Mwas as he wrestles with fame, danger, and survival in the Nairobi film underworld. With tighter storytelling and powerful visuals, the sequel offers a raw portrait of urban Kenya.
2. Mo-Faya – Netflix
Created by Reuben Odanga, this seven-part series follows Zawadie and Brian as they chase a better future but get entangled in Nairobi’s criminal networks. Featuring emotionally complex characters and a powerful visual tone, Mo-Faya blends action and drama with cultural depth.
3. The Fixer – Showmax
A former cop turned private investigator takes on dark cases across Nairobi, revealing corruption, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. This suspense-packed crime series stands out with its noir aesthetic and nuanced lead character.
4. Sincerely Yours – Netflix
Set in modern-day Nairobi, this romantic drama explores love, heartbreak, and self-discovery through two intertwined relationships that challenge gender roles and generational expectations.
5. The Bahati’s Empire – Netflix
This reality series offers a behind-the-scenes look at the celebrity couple Bahati and Diana Marua, showcasing their music careers, family life, and the drama of being in the public eye. It’s emotional, opulent, and undeniably Kenyan.
6. Nia – Showmax
A young woman sets out to become a successful entrepreneur against tough odds. Nia is a motivational story about resilience, self-worth, and finding purpose in a competitive world.
7. Pangani High – YouTube
This high school drama follows teens navigating friendship, peer pressure, and identity in the urban classroom. With fresh performances and relatable dialogue, it’s a favorite among youth audiences.
8. Untying Kantai – Showmax
A former musician rebuilds his life after being conned out of his inheritance. The series examines family, forgiveness, and the search for identity in a fast-moving society.
9. African Folktales Reimagined – Netflix
Kenya’s contribution to the UNESCO-backed anthology offers a modern take on traditional stories, celebrating wisdom, symbolism, and intergenerational lessons through a cinematic lens.
10. Jiji – Showmax
This fast-paced crime drama takes viewers deep into Eastlands, where loyalties are tested and power plays unfold. It’s a visually arresting series with sharp writing and standout performances.
Bonus Picks
- Big Girl Small World – A romantic comedy exploring self-image and millennial dating in Nairobi
- Makosa Ni Yangu – A dramatic film examining the emotional toll of domestic violence in Kenyan households
- The Hot Seat – Kenya’s spiciest roast comedy show with bold celebrity interviews
- Sketchy Africans – A humorous look at Nairobi’s con artists, starring up-and-coming comic talent
Conclusion
Kenya’s 2025 streaming lineup captures the full spectrum of its creative energy—from the streets of Eastlands to boardrooms, campuses, and concert stages. With bold visuals, compelling storytelling, and authentic characters, these films and series reflect the evolving face of Kenyan entertainment. It’s a good year to be watching local.
