By 
Daudi Anguka Spotlights Coast Stories in New Thriller ‘Mizani’
Award-winning filmmaker Daudi Anguka is pushing boundaries once again with Mizani, a bold new drama series that dives into the dark world of organ trafficking while placing Kenya’s Coast at the centre of storytelling.
Premiering today on Showmax and airing this Saturday on Maisha Magic Plus, Mizani marks a major milestone as the first Showmax-commissioned project shot and set in Mombasa. New episodes will air weekly.
A darker, more daring narrative
For Anguka, Mizani is more than entertainment. It is a deeply personal project rooted in Coast identity and untold realities.
“I wanted to tell stories from the Coast our stories,” he says. “Mizani is my love letter to this region.”
Known for productions such as Pete, Sanura, and Mkasi, Anguka takes a different direction with Mizani. This time, he embraces a darker, thriller-driven narrative.
He explains that storytelling must both entertain and educate. By tackling sensitive issues like organ trafficking, the series sheds light on realities many people overlook.
Daudi Anguka Spotlights Coast Stories in New Thriller ‘Mizani’
Exploring the realities of organ trafficking
While Anguka previously explored similar themes in Mvera, he says Mizani presents a completely different perspective.
“Organ trafficking is a massive chain. It changes depending on where you look,” he explains.
The series draws from real-life experiences across Africa. It highlights how poverty can push individuals into extreme decisions. Some willingly sell organs, while others become victims without knowing.
The title Mizani, meaning “scales,” reflects the moral dilemmas at the heart of the story.
“Do you save yourself or destroy yourself? That’s the balance the show explores,” Anguka adds.
Local talent takes the lead
The production features a largely Coast-based cast, reinforcing authenticity and representation. Michael Saruni plays the lead role of Suleiman, a struggling journalist navigating life and survival.
Anguka says casting local talent was intentional.
“This is the first Showmax project in Mombasa. The audience needed to see themselves on screen,” he notes.
Through characters like Suleiman and his daughter Amira, viewers experience both everyday life and the hidden dangers within their environment.
From local roots to global ambition
Anguka’s journey reflects steady growth from grassroots filmmaking to international recognition. Inspired by creatives such as Clifford Okumu and the iconic Nairobi Half Life, he set out to prove that Kenyan stories can compete globally.
“That’s when I knew I could go international,” he says.
Beyond filmmaking, Anguka remains committed to mentoring young creatives and promoting community storytelling.
Beyond the camera
Away from the set, Anguka enjoys travel and simple living. He lists Thailand and Seychelles among his dream destinations and prefers spending time with friends and family to unwind.
Despite his growing success, he maintains a grounded lifestyle, noting his most prized possession is an iPhone used mainly for behind-the-scenes content.
A new chapter for Coast storytelling
With Mizani, Anguka is not just telling a story he is redefining the narrative space for Kenya’s Coast region.
The series signals a shift in the industry, where regional stories gain national and global attention. It also reinforces the power of film to spark conversation while reflecting society.
As Mizani rolls out weekly episodes, it positions itself as both a gripping thriller and a thought-provoking exploration of difficult truths firmly placing the Coast on Kenya’s cinematic map.
Comments