What to Watch in East Africa This October

This October guide features shows and movies from Ethiopia and Kenya.

A still showing actress Njambi Mburu, lead star of ‘Wamaitha.’

Set against the backdrop of the Mau Mau rebellion, ‘Wamaitha’ is a historical drama that follows a young woman's journey as she navigates her family's complex past and present.

Photo from ‘Waimatha Official Trailer’ via Kiwetu Productions, YouTube.

October brings an exciting selection of films and TV shows from East Africa, ranging from Kenya’s drama-filled streets to Ethiopia’s profound love stories. This month’s guide has you covered.

‘A Grand Little Lie’ (Kenya)


Joe, a people-pleaser, tells a small lie to his boss in order to please his girlfriend. This lie eventually blows up to magnitudes of biblical proportions. Written by Abel Mutua and directed by Philip Karanja, the film originally premiered in 2021.

Where to Watch: Netflix

‘Fiker Eske Mekaber’ (Ethiopia)


One of Ethiopia’s most beloved love stories, Fiker Eske Mekaber, is an adaptation of a classic novel of the same name by Haddis Alemayehu. Directed by Sewmehon Yismaw and produced by Sew Mehon Productions, the series explores love, social change, and sacrifice in an evolving Ethiopia, delivering a deeply moving narrative that resonates across generations.

Where to Watch: Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC)

‘Wamaitha’ (Kenya)


Set against the backdrop of the Mau Mau rebellion against British colonizers, Wamaitha is a historical drama that follows a young woman's journey as she navigates her family's complex past and present. Directed by Kang’ethe Mungai, the film delves deeply into themes of identity, belonging and societal expectations in Kenya while shedding light on the untold stories of women fighters who played a significant role in the country's history.

Where to Watch: In Theaters in Nairobi

‘Njoro Wa Uba’ (Kenya)


The acclaimed Kenyan series Njoro wa Uba stars Joe Kinyua, a man forced to become a taxi driver after losing a well-paying job due to fraud accusations. The show, which won Best Comedy at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2023, is now in its 14th season. It follows Njoro as he navigates his day-to-day hustle as a taxi driver, encountering a wide range of characters and situations that reflect the lively, unpredictable nature of life in Nairobi.

Where to Watch: Maisha Magic (DStv).

‘Our Perfect Wedding’ (Kenya )


Get ready to be swept away by the magic and splendor of Kenyan weddings with a new season of Our Perfect Wedding Kenya. This beloved reality show continues to offer viewers an intimate look into the lives of couples as they embark on the journey to plan their dream weddings.

Where to Watch: Showmax.

​Photo illustration by Kaushik Kalidindi, Okayplayer.
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