StarTimes has signalled a new phase in its investment in Kenya’s creative industry, unveiling a locally produced television drama while announcing plans to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its content production without replacing human creativity.
The broadcaster launched Sura ya Pili, a new Kenyan drama series that premieres on Monday, July 6, on Rembo TV, describing the production as part of its long-term strategy to strengthen local storytelling, create jobs and grow the country’s creative economy.
The announcement comes at a time when broadcasters and streaming platforms are increasingly competing for audiences through original African productions while exploring AI-powered technologies to improve production efficiency and audience engagement.
Speaking during the launch, StarTimes Marketing Director Tamima Ibrahim said the company remains committed to investing in authentic Kenyan stories that not only entertain audiences but also create employment opportunities throughout the film and television value chain.
“We are investing heavily in the promotion of the creative economy through quality local productions. Sura ya Pili will not only entertain audiences but also create job opportunities for the cast and the many professionals involved in its production,” she said.
She said locally produced content plays an important role in preserving Kenya’s cultural identity, nurturing creative talent and expanding opportunities for actors, directors, writers and production crews.
As part of its evolving strategy, Ibrahim said StarTimes is embracing Artificial Intelligence to improve production workflows, content distribution and audience engagement.
However, she emphasized that AI will serve as a creative support tool rather than a replacement for filmmakers and storytellers.
“We see AI as a tool that supports creativity and innovation. Our investment remains firmly in local talent because authentic storytelling can only come from our people,” she said.
The broadcaster’s approach reflects a wider global shift, where media companies are integrating AI into production processes while maintaining that creative decisions remain in the hands of human storytellers.
The launch of Sura ya Pili also marks another milestone in StarTimes’ continued investment in Kenyan productions, with the broadcaster seeking to expand opportunities for local filmmakers and actors as demand for homegrown content continues to grow.
Among those benefiting from the investment is popular musician Jovial Ayub, who makes her television drama debut by taking on the lead role of Ziada.
She stars alongside Gibson Ausa, Ivy Wanjiku, Anita Wawuda and Michael Saruni in a cast that brings together some of Kenya’s emerging acting talent.
In the series, Ziada is a devoted stay-at-home mother whose world falls apart after her husband, Sam, abandons her for another woman.
Forced to rebuild her life while raising her child alone, she navigates financial hardship, workplace challenges and the emotional journey of rediscovering herself.
The drama explores themes of resilience, female empowerment, second chances and the changing dynamics of modern Kenyan families.
With its blend of compelling storytelling and relatable social issues, Sura ya Pili is expected to appeal to audiences looking for authentic Kenyan narratives while reinforcing StarTimes’ strategy of investing in local productions that showcase homegrown talent.
The series premieres on Monday, July 6, exclusively on Rembo TV.
