MTV Shuga Mashariki, the latest chapter of the iconic Shuga franchise by the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, officially kicked off its highly anticipated return to Kenya with a star-studded premiere event held on Wednesday in Nairobi at The Tamarind Brasserie.

The glamorous evening brought together the show’s cast, crew, producers, partners and media in celebration of powerful storytelling. The guests had an exclusive first look at the series and a chance to interact with the cast, directors and crew, alongside executives from the MTV Staying Alive Foundation.

The new season is set to premiere in Kenya on local TV on May 13 airing weekly on Tuesdays, and internationally on BET. It will also be available globally on MTV Shuga’s YouTube channel starting May 14, with new episodes every Wednesday at 8 PM EAT.The Production team has worked on eight episodes for Season 2 shot in various locations across the country.

At the heart of this new chapter is an eclectic and diverse cast of rising and established talent including Serah Wanjiru, Basil Mungai, Matthew Ngugi, Wilson Muchemi, Fatuma Gichuru, Julie Brenda, Fridah Mumbe, Mariam Bishar and Makena Kahuha, each delivering powerful and authentic performances, adding to the emotional depth of the series.

Mitchelle Kimathi, Country Manager (Kenya) at MTV Staying Alive Foundation, says, “We are incredibly proud to present MTV Shuga Mashariki as a uniquely Kenyan story, created by and for young people across the country. The strength of our cast and creative team reflects our commitment to delivering content that the audience can relate to owing to our intention to engage in meaningful storytelling that reflects the realities of Kenyan youth.”

The show’s powerhouse team of Kenyan directors: June Ndinya, Mkaiwawi “Mkay” Mwakaba and Likarion Wainaina — were in attendance at the premiere. Representing a new era in Kenyan storytelling, the trio has brought their groundbreaking experience in film and television to MTV Shuga Mashariki, elevating the production with rich narratives and a bold cinematic vision. Reuben Odanga of Multan Productions – the powerhouse behind numerous celebrated Kenyan series who was tasked with bringing the series to life, was also in attendance.

Developed under the Surround Sound Kenya Programme, this season builds on MTV Shuga’s legacy as Africa’s leading youth drama — a platform for both social impact and creative excellence. Through compelling characters and bold narratives, the series unpacks issues that affect young people and their outcomes.

Speaking at the premiere event, Wame Jallow, Executive Director of the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, said, “It’s very special for us to be back in Kenya. The very first MTV Shuga made here in 2009 marked the beginning of what would become a global broadcast franchise — spanning across South Africa, Nigeria, India and beyond. But MTV Shuga is more than just a series; it’s a movement. It has sparked important and often difficult conversations among young people worldwide. The return of Shuga to Kenya affirms the work we’ve been doing at the MTV Staying Alive Foundation for the past 25 years. We know this isn’t about quick wins — it’s about creating deep, long-term and meaningful impact. Through the Surround Sound Kenya programme, we aim to drive better health and educational outcomes for young people across the country.”

With compelling narratives and grounded performances, MTV Shuga Mashariki is designed to spark conversation, reflection and change. The new season dives deep into the lives of Kenyan youth, addressing issues such as sexual and reproductive health, financial independence, gender norms, consent and the power of collective youth agency.