Director Enos Olik captures ghetto life in the new series ‘Jiji’ set in Jericho, Eastlands
A new youth drama series, Jiji, promises to captivate audiences with its gritty portrayal of life in Jericho, a low-income settlement in Nairobi.
The series centres on four young girls who resort to crime to survive, highlighting the harsh realities and moral complexities they face.
The story follows eighteen-year-old Julz, who is determined to provide for her family at any cost.
When her younger brother secures a place at a prestigious international school, Julz and her three friends take on a risky job for Jericho’s notorious kingpin, Makali.
The decision leads to devastating consequences that forever alter their lives.
“Jiji captures the raw and authentic experiences of life in the ghetto,” says director Enos Olik, known for his work on Famous.
“The series delves into the nuanced lives of four young women, each with unique strengths and vulnerabilities, as they navigate a world that constantly pulls them back into crime. The intense emotional and moral conflicts, combined with the dynamic setting of Eastlands, promise a gripping and heartfelt narrative that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.”
Olik directs a predominantly young cast, an experience he describes as highly rewarding.
“It’s been a collaborative effort working with them. Their enthusiasm and commitment to portraying their characters’ struggles and growth add a vibrant and realistic touch to the series. It’s also inspiring to see how they connect with the material, drawing from their own experiences and observations to bring depth to their performances,” he says.
Co-directors of the series include Edwin Kamau (Crime and Justice, Second Family), Njue Kevin (Big Girl Small World as producer), Isaya Evans (Igiza), and Michael Jones, all of whom bring a wealth of experience and creativity to the project.
Jiji will be premiering on Showmax on 17 June.
Meet the cast of Jiji
Fridah Mumbe (Pepeta) is Julz: Smart, ambitious and loyal to a fault, a hustler and a problem solver who is always looking at the big picture, making her the natural leader of the group.
Nungari Kiore (Volume) is Achie: a young mother who wants to provide for her children and give them better chances than she had. Not really the smartest, but she is also the muscle of the group. Achie can lift and push anything and anyone.
Newcomer Aicy Stevens is Mwende: the adventurous beauty and slick charmer of the group who makes the best decoy or pickpocket.
Sybil Colette (Igiza) is Vee: the one with the book smarts in the group. She’s great with numbers and figured out how to save proceeds from their robbery early on.
Keith Chuaga (Igiza) is Jericho’s kingpin Makali: respected and feared by many. He has a tight grip on the girls that they can’t seem to shake off.
Wakio Mzenge (County 49) is Milka aka Mama Julz: a strict and uncompromising mother who rules her household with an iron fist.
George Mo (Pepeta) is Milka’s husband and Julz’s father Eddie: a loving and humble man who always protects Julz from her mother’s wrath.
Jiji also stars Nick Kwach (County 49), Bridget Shighadi (Zora), Marcus Ochieng (Pepeta), Ywaya Xavier (40 Sticks), Benson Ojuwa (Untying Kantai), Emmanuel Mugo (Big Girl Small World), Helena Waithera (Tabasamu), Anita Wawuda (Kiu), Diana Luvanda (Zora), Carlyn Karagai and Kendi Taylor.