Popular singer makes television debut as StarTimes doubles down on investment in Kenyan productions and local talent.
Award-winning Kenyan musician Jovial Ayub has taken a major step in her entertainment career after landing the lead role in Sura ya Pili, a new locally produced television drama unveiled by StarTimes as part of its continued investment in Kenya’s creative industry.
The drama is set to premiere on Monday, July 6, exclusively on Rembo TV, further expanding StarTimes’ portfolio of homegrown productions designed to showcase authentic Kenyan stories while creating employment opportunities for local creatives.
Known for chart-topping hits that have made her one of Kenya’s most celebrated female artists, Jovial now transitions from music to acting in what marks her biggest television role to date. She stars alongside Gibson Ausa, Ivy Wanjiku, Anita Wawuda, Michael Saruni, and a talented cast of Kenyan actors.
StarTimes Reaffirms Commitment to Kenyan Content
Speaking during the launch, StarTimes Marketing Director Tamima Ibrahim said the broadcaster remains committed to strengthening Kenya’s creative economy by investing in high-quality local productions.
“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 noted that authentic Kenyan storytelling plays a critical role in preserving culture, nurturing local talent and expanding opportunities within the country’s rapidly growing film and television industry.
StarTimes Embraces AI to Support Creativity
StarTimes also announced that it is incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its production processes to improve efficiency, audience engagement and content distribution.
However, Ibrahim emphasized that AI will serve as a creative support tool rather than replacing human talent.
“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 move reflects a broader global trend where media companies are increasingly adopting AI-powered technologies to streamline production while keeping writers, actors and filmmakers at the centre of storytelling.
Sura ya Pili Tells a Story of Resilience and Second Chances
In the new drama, Jovial portrays Ziada, a devoted stay-at-home mother whose world is turned upside down after her husband, Sam, abandons her for another woman.
Forced to raise her child alone, Ziada embarks on an emotional journey of rebuilding her life while navigating financial hardship, workplace challenges and the realities of single motherhood.
As she encounters new friendships and unexpected opportunities, she gradually regains her confidence and discovers the possibility of finding love again.
The series explores themes of resilience, empowerment, personal growth and family, offering a relatable portrayal of challenges faced by many modern Kenyan women.
Strengthening Kenya’s Film Industry
With Sura ya Pili, StarTimes continues to expand its investment in locally produced programming, providing a platform for Kenyan actors, producers, directors and other creative professionals to tell stories that resonate with local audiences.
The series is expected to appeal to viewers through its emotional storytelling, relatable characters and strong performances, while reinforcing the growing demand for quality Kenyan television content.
Sura ya Pili premieres on Monday, July 6, exclusively on Rembo TV.
