A new Kenyan drama series, "May I Take Your Order", premiered in Nairobi on November 7, 2026, with the first three episodes screened at Samawi Terrace, Karen. The seven-episode web series, produced by Tedmade Films, was created in collaboration with Film Sunset's Rooftop Cinema. The screening was followed by a question-and-answer session with the cast, creators, and crew. The series follows the story of Mwenda, a waiter in a Nairobi restaurant, who becomes an unlikely confidant for customers dealing with personal struggles.

The series stars Bruce Makau as Mwenda, alongside Vanessa Aika, who plays Ruth, a sharp-tongued waitress, and Blessing Lungaho, who portrays David, the restaurant manager. Other cast members include Makena Kahuha, Mugambi Ikiara, Bhavnesh 'Chintu' Chudasama, Nungo Marrianne Akinyi, Ainea Ojiambo, Mwende King'ori, Nyokabi Macharia, Wakio Mzenge, Ciku Kaboi, and Ben Tekee. Each episode introduces a different customer and a new story, gradually revealing more about Mwenda's own circumstances.

Producer Foi Wambui said the project was conceived as an opportunity to tell everyday African stories through familiar settings and human interactions. Wambui stated that a restaurant provided an ideal setting because of the different personalities and experiences that converge in such spaces. The series was created and written by Bruce Makau, directed by Justin Mengere, and produced by Foi Wambui, with Mengere and Wambui also serving as executive producers.

Filming for the series took place at Java Ola in Parklands, Nairobi, with support from Java House. The production was completed over four days across two locations. Following the premiere, the first episode became available on YouTube on November 8, 2026. The remaining six episodes will be released weekly, with new instalments premiering every Friday at noon East African Time until December 18.

The series explores the relationships, ambitions, and unexpected moments that make up everyday lives. The story is set in a Nairobi restaurant, where Mwenda's interactions with customers gradually reveal their personal struggles. However, beneath his seemingly calm demeanour, Mwenda is also running from something in his own past.

The premiere of "May I Take Your Order" is a significant milestone for Kenyan film production. The series is available on the Tedmadefilms YouTube channel. This new production is an example of the growing Kenyan film industry, with new stories and talent emerging.

The creators of "May I Take Your Order" plan to continue producing content that showcases African stories and talent. With its unique setting and relatable characters, the series is expected to resonate with audiences. Key points include:

Key points

  • The series was produced by Tedmade Films and premiered in collaboration with Film Sunset's Rooftop Cinema.
  • The story follows Mwenda, a waiter who becomes an unlikely confidant for customers dealing with personal struggles.
  • The series will be released weekly on YouTube until December 18, 2026.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.