Shamba la Wanyama, a new Kenyan series based on George Orwell’s novel Animal Farm, is set to premiere on Citizen TV’s VOD platform Viu Sasa soon. Here’s everything we know about the series so far.
The plot
John Karanja alias Prophet Reverend Apostle King David (likened to Farmer Jones in Animal Farm) is a charismatic prosperity gospel businessman; he’s in the business of selling hope to the hopeless. Every time the economy is on its knees, he has an influx of new congregants. This year his church – the Tumaini Tabernacle of Glory for The Oppressed – has opened five new branches. He’s a busy man. He has groomed his sons to take over in the future…but the future has arrived faster than he expected.
Who’s behind it?
Shamba la Wanyama is directed and produced by Stuart Nash, known for his theatre projects like Betrayal in the City, I Will Marry When I Want, Mstinji and Sarafina, all under his production company Nairobi Performing Performing Arts Studio. This is Nash’s first TV project.
Serah Mwihaki, known for Nairobi Half Life and Single Kiasi, is the show’s writer, with Esther Kimani executive producing.
Who’s in the cast?
Shamba la Wanyama is led by Sam Psenjen (Shimoni) and Wakio Mzenge (County 49) as Prophet and his wife Hannah, with Nyakundi Isaboke (Click Click Bang), Amani Mwasera, Scarlet Sakwa (County 49), Dedan Juma (Pepeta), Mary Mwikali (Second Family), Shiviske Shivisi (40 Sticks), Dennis Musyoka (Maria), Dru Muthure (Mother-in-Law), and Ibrahim Muchemi (Wembe Squad) also starring.
Release date
The series will premiere on Viu Sasa on 21 October.
