Netflix Africa Appoints New Scripted Content Director After Matatu Exits

Netflix Africa Announces Leadership Change with Kaye-Ann Williams as New Director of Scripted Content

Netflix Africa has appointed Kaye-Ann Williams as its new Director of Scripted Content, marking a notable leadership transition for the streaming giant. Williams, previously an executive at Amazon, will be responsible for overseeing the creation of original African films and television series, with a strong emphasis on local productions to enhance Netflix’s footprint in the region. She will report to Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s Vice President of Content for the Middle East and Africa, starting in February.

This appointment comes following the departure of Tendeka Matatu, who previously held the role of Director of Local Language Films, and has left the company to explore new opportunities.

Kaye-Ann Williams brings significant experience to her new role, having served as the Head of Scripted Series and Movies at Prime Video/Amazon Studios, where she was instrumental in shaping the company’s content strategy for African productions, particularly in South Africa. More recently, she was the content lead at Primedia Studios, the production house behind “The Traitors South Africa.”

Amadasun expressed his excitement about Williams’ joining the team, recognizing her extensive skill set in developing ambitious television projects rooted in African narratives. “I’m delighted to welcome Kaye-Ann to the team as we strengthen our long-term commitment to African storytelling. Her experience and proven success in nurturing local talent will be invaluable as we continue to build on the fantastic work done so far,” he stated.

Williams’ arrival comes at a crucial time for Netflix Africa, as the company is reaffirming its dedication to African content amid industry concerns regarding international streaming investments in the region. In early January 2024, Amazon announced cuts to its funding for African projects, prompting speculation about whether Netflix would follow suit. However, despite recent reductions in commissioning originals in Nigeria, Netflix has asserted its commitment to the African market, a stance further solidified by Williams’ hiring.

Since launching its first African original series, “Queen Sono,” in 2020, Netflix has consistently invested in local content, forming partnerships with notable African filmmakers like Mandla Dube, the director of “Silverton Siege,” and Jayan Moodley, creator of the “Kandasamys” franchise.

At the recent MIP Africa event held in Cape Town, Netflix unveiled several new projects, including a series titled “Blood Legacy” from the producers of “Blood & Water,” as well as a reality show called “Love Never Lies: South Africa.”

The strategic focus on expanding its African content offerings is part of Netflix’s broader initiative to align with the growing demand for diverse and culturally relevant programming. The company has enjoyed substantial success with its African projects, and Williams is expected to play a pivotal role in propelling this growth further.

This announcement follows a promising financial performance for Netflix, which exceeded expectations in Q4 by adding nearly 19 million new subscribers, bringing its global total to 300 million.