By Eddah Waithaka
MultiChoice Talent Factory alumnus Maurice Muendo makes his directorial debut as BOBO premieres on Showmax this May.
The film arrives on the African streaming platform after earning critical acclaim at the 2025 Joburg Film Festival.
BOBO tells the story of a determined young woman who loses a bursary opportunity and discovers her family risks losing their land to a ruthless loan shark.
As she battles societal and familial pressures, Bobo learns that chasing her dreams demands tough sacrifices. Newcomer Faith Muthoni stars as Bobo, supported by Kelly Njeri Gathoni (Jiji), Zak Matasi (4Play), Elvis Makutsa (Selina), Thuita Mwangi (Pepeta), Naitwa Louisa (Kina), and Catherine Buluma (Tehanani).
Muendo produced the film under African Dopler Limited (County 49, Volume), teaming up with fellow MTF alumnus Bruno Tanya, who wrote the script.
A Personal Story of Struggle and Ambition “I gravitate toward stories of resilience—especially in marginalized communities—because they reflect my own upbringing in Eastleigh,” says Muendo.
“BOBO captures the fight so many young people face to rewrite their futures.” He adds, “Mathare wasn’t just a setting; it shaped the film’s soul. We collaborated closely with locals to preserve its authenticity. BOBOchallenges stereotypes, proving dreams don’t recognize boundaries. I hope it pushes viewers to defy limits.”
A Standout Among Hundreds
Showmax and the Joburg Film Festival selected BOBO from 296 submissions in an open call for first-time directors across Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.
A panel including MultiChoice executives, festival curator Nhlanhla Ndaba, filmmakers Femi Odugbemi, Njoki Muhoho, and Pat van Heerden, and jury chair Cheryl Uys-Allie chose the project.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this inspiring story of hope and transformation when BOBO premieres exclusively on Showmax on 23 May 2025.
Read More Stories At: https://africawatchnews.co.ke/
