Kenyan Film World Mourns Appie Matere — Trailblazing Producer Behind Kona, Killer Necklace Has Died

Appie Matere

The Kenyan film and television community is mourning the loss of Appie Matere, a pioneering producer whose work played a key role in defining contemporary Kenyan storytelling on screen. News of her passing has drawn tributes from filmmakers, institutions and creatives across Africa, many describing her as a builder of both stories and people.

Over the course of her career, Matere established herself as a creative entrepreneur with a sharp eye for stories rooted in everyday African life. Through her production company, Zamaradi Productions, she championed locally made content at a time when Kenyan film and television were still fighting for visibility and structure.

One of her most widely recognised works was the television drama Kona, which aired on Africa Magic and introduced Kenyan narratives to audiences across the continent. The series marked a turning point for Kenyan television, proving that local stories could travel and resonate beyond national borders.

Matere’s film work was equally impactful. Projects such as Killer Necklace and Headlines in History earned critical recognition and awards, with her films screening at international festivals and winning honours at the Kalasha Awards. Beyond accolades, her work consistently opened doors for emerging talent, both behind and in front of the camera.

Colleagues remember Matere not only for her productions, but for her commitment to mentorship and industry development. She was known for investing time in young creatives, sharing hard-earned lessons about storytelling, production and sustainability in Africa’s creative economy.

Her passing marks the end of an important chapter in Kenyan cinema, but her influence remains visible in the careers she nurtured and the stories she helped bring to life. Appie Matere leaves behind a body of work that continues to inspire the next generation of African filmmakers.