Reuben Odanga, the acclaimed producer behind Selina, returns with Lazizi, a gripping new telenovela set to premiere on Monday, 6 October 2025, at 20:00 EAT on Maisha Magic Plus.
The show will air Monday to Friday, bringing viewers into a world of ambition, betrayal, and buried secrets.
A Story Rooted in Power, Family, and Redemption
Produced by Multan Productions, Lazizi follows Mark Mbotela (played by Mwaniki Mageria), a sugarcane mogul whose political ambitions are driven not by glory, but by self-preservation. As he vies for the governor’s seat, his past resurfaces—threatening to unravel his carefully curated image. A dangerous love affair, family rivalries, and long-held secrets push Mark to the edge.
“I was heavily inspired by the flora and fauna of this country, especially the beautiful landscapes of Muhoroni,” said Odanga. “It felt right to tell a story from that region—something grounded and relatable.”
Odanga added that the show blends realism with high drama, incorporating Swahili, English, and Luo to reflect Kenya’s linguistic diversity.
Maisha Magic Plus Backs Local Storytelling
Margaret Mathore, Channel Head at Maisha Magic Plus, emphasised the platform’s commitment to Kenyan storytelling:
“Lazizi is another testament to our investment in Kenya’s creative industry. Just like Selina, we believe it will captivate viewers and affirm the strength of homegrown productions.”
Meet the Cast of Lazizi
- Mwaniki Mageria (The Chocolate Empire) as Mark Mbotela: A self-made businessman with political ambitions and a troubled past.
- Jackie “Wilbroda” Nyaminde (Country Queen) as Amina: Mark’s ex and mother of his son, Shaffie. She battles alcoholism and guilt.
- Hellen Keli (Single Kiasi) as Bridget Mbotela: Mark’s controlling wife, determined to secure the family fortune for her son.
- Isaac Okoyo (Reckless) as Shaffie Mbotela: Mark’s estranged son, caught between identity and indulgence.
- Zandie Andika (Sky Girls) as Richard Mbotela: Mark’s stepson and heir apparent to the sugar empire.
- Evelyne Gitonga (One in a Million) as Natasha: Richard’s girlfriend, struggling with unrequited love.
- Vivian Nyawira (Njoro wa Uba) as Sophie: Amina’s daughter, shaped by hardship and independence.
- Joel Otukho (Country Queen) as Juma: Loyal factory manager with secrets that could shift the family’s fate.
Additional cast includes Clare Karatu (Pishi Bomba), Michael Odhiambo (Tahidi High), and Samson Omondi (Salem).
Behind the Scenes
Directed by Reuben Odanga, June Ndinya (MTV Shuga), and Davis Nato, Lazizi features a writing team led by Clifford Okumu (Pete), supported by Joseph Akwiri, Wanjau Wachira (Selina), Mitchell Gitonga, and Lucia Shikuku (Makutano Junction).
