Finally, all eight episodes of the Kenyan crime drama series Pepeta are now available to binge on Showmax. 

Based on a real-life story, Pepeta tells the story of Junior (played by Brahim Ouma), a talented young footballer. He is caught between the world of crime and football. 

Its plot is loosely based on the real-life story of Harun ‘Rio’ Wathari. The series captures the dreams and realities of the youth in Kibera. The slum area is known for churning out top football players in the country. 

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The series has a rich cast of characters whose arcs are important in highlighting the socio-economic challenges in slums. These are like extrajudicial killings, crime, the plight of the Kenyan Nubian community, and more. 

Crime Drama Series Pepeta on Showmax

Since premiering in November 2022, Pepeta has been much-loved by Kenyans on Twitter. It is being heavily praised for its storytelling, authenticity and relatability.

“Pepeta is such a great show. Stories we can relate to produced that well are so rare,” one fan wrote. Another called it “the best production to ever come from Kenyan soil.”

This support from Kenyan viewers has been overwhelming, says creator and producer James Kombo.

“As artists, at the end of the day, all that matters is how the art has been received.” 

Director Vincent Mbaya said that seeing the comments and reactions from people who have watched Pepeta reassured him they had told a good story well.  

Pepeta head writer Damaris Irungu says she hadn’t expected just how much the story would resonate with the audience.

“They journeyed with our characters and rooted for them; they connected with the themes and the failed system in slums like Kibera. My heart is full that Pepeta hasn’t only entertained but has moved hearts to the plight of our characters and the realities of our world.”