As MTV Shuga Mashariki gears up for its premiere this May, the MTV Staying Alive Foundation (MTV SAF) has unveiled the lead cast set to bring the beloved young adult drama to life.
Leading the ensemble are Serah Wanjiru (Volume), Basil Mungai (Click Click Bang), Matthew Ngugi (Mo-Faya), Fridah Mumbe (Jiji), Makena Kahuha (Subterranea), Julie Brenda (Kina), Fatuma Gichuru (Sky Girls), radio host Mariam Bishar and and newcomer Wilson Muchemi.
Stay ahead of Kenya & East Africa’s film and TV.
Get our stories in your inbox — Subscribe to our newsletter now.
This cast was selected through a series of rigorous nationwide audition process – both physical and virtual – held in October 2024 where over 1,600 actors from across Kenya had the opportunity to step into the spotlight. “MTV Shuga Mashariki marks a bold new chapter in the Shuga universe,” says Mitchelle Kimathi, MTV SAF County Manager (Kenya). “We are proud to bring together a diverse cast that authentically reflects Kenyan culture while addressing the complex challenges young people face daily.”
Set in the dynamic world of campus life, MTV Shuga Mashariki continues the franchise’s mission to entertain and empower young audiences. The series explores social dynamics affecting the youth, from restrictive and harmful gender norms to love, ambition, peer pressure, mental health and the power of community support. It aims to ignite vital conversations on agency, sexual and reproductive health, consent and informed decision-making among young people across Kenya.
“We are not only addressing critical societal issues but also nurturing the next generation of Kenyan superstars,” says Kimathi. “From our talented directors to the fresh faces discovered during our auditions, this production continues the legacy of MTV Shuga as a platform for launching careers and telling impactful stories that resonate across the continent.”
MTV Shuga Mashariki is directed by Mkaiwawi Mwakaba (Makosa ni Yangu, 4Play), June Ndinya (Prefects, Flash Squad) and Likarion Wainaina (Supa Modo, Subterranea), and produced by Reuben Odanga (Nafsi, Mo-Faya).
“Right from the onset, we have been intentional about assembling a cast that truly reflects the diversity of Kenyan youth,” says Mwakaba. “We are thrilled that our approach delivered not only incredible talent but also individuals capable of delivering the depth and complexity of the show with the authenticity and reliability that brings MTV Shuga Mashariki to life.”
Wainaina adds, “This is critical for a series that seeks to challenge aggression, promote financial independence and foster youth solidarity for a more inclusive and empowered generation.”
Watch trailer below.
Update: Catch MTV Shuga Mashariki every Tuesday at 10:00 PM on BET and 11:00 PM on Citizen TV, with a next-day release on YouTube at 8:00 PM. New episodes release weekly.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
All reporting, interviews, and reviews on Sinema Focus are protected under international copyright law and the Kenya Copyright Act, 2001. No part of this publication may be reproduced, rewritten, republished, or redistributed in any form by media outlets without prior written consent. For reprint or syndication inquiries, contact editorial@sinemafocus.com.
©️ 2026 Sinema Focus / African Film Press. All rights reserved.
Never miss a moment.
Get the latest stories from Sinema Focus delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter now.
Can’t wait to watch. Great work.
Super excited to watch this!
Love all this man