Streaming has become an integral part of modern entertainment, offering a vast array of content at the fingertips of users. In Kenya, the streaming landscape has evolved significantly over the years, with numerous platforms vying for the attention of viewers. As we enter 2024, the competition is expected to intensify, with new services emerging and existing ones refining their offerings. In this guide, we will explore the best and most reliable streaming services in Kenya, highlighting their features, pricing, and content offerings.
Top Streaming Services in Kenya
1. Showmax
Showmax is one of the most popular streaming services in Kenya, offering a vast library of content including local and international TV shows, movies, and documentaries. With a user-friendly interface and personalized recommendations, Showmax caters to a diverse audience. The platform features exclusive Kenyan content, such as local dramas and reality shows, which appeal to the Kenyan audience. Showmax offers various subscription plans, including a mobile-only option, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Packages.
- Showmax Mobile. KES 350 per month (mobile-only)
- Showmax Standard. KES 550 per month (HD streaming, multiple devices)
- Showmax Premium. KES 750 per month (HD and 4K streaming, multiple devices, offline viewing)
2. Netflix
Netflix is another leading streaming service in Kenya, offering a vast selection of movies, TV shows, and original content. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, personalized recommendations, and high-quality content. Netflix has been actively investing in local Kenyan content, partnering with Kenyan filmmakers and production companies to create original shows and movies. This has helped to increase the platform’s popularity among Kenyan viewers.
Packages.
- Basic Plan. KES 1,200 per month (SD streaming, one screen)
- Standard Plan. KES 1,800 per month (HD streaming, two screens)
- Premium Plan. KES 2,500 per month (HD and 4K streaming, four screens, offline viewing)
3. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is a relatively new player in the Kenyan streaming market, but it has quickly gained traction. The platform offers a diverse range of content, including popular TV shows, movies, and Amazon Originals. Amazon Prime Video’s subscription model, which includes free shipping and other Amazon benefits, has made it an attractive option for Kenyan consumers.
Packages.
- Amazon Prime Video. KES 1,500 per month (HD streaming, multiple devices, offline viewing)
- Amazon Prime. KES 2,500 per month (HD streaming, multiple devices, offline viewing, free shipping, and other Amazon benefits)
4. DStv Now
DStv Now is the streaming platform of the popular satellite TV service, DStv. It offers live TV channels, on-demand content, and the ability to download shows for offline viewing. DStv Now is particularly popular among Kenyan viewers who are already DStv subscribers, as it provides a seamless way to access content on multiple devices. The platform’s extensive library of local and international content, including live sports, makes it a compelling choice for Kenyan viewers.
Packages.
- DStv Now. KES 500 per month (live TV channels, on-demand content, offline viewing)
- DStv Premium. KES 2,500 per month (live TV channels, on-demand content, offline viewing, and access to DStv’s premium content)
5. YouTube
YouTube is a free, ad-supported streaming platform that has a significant presence in Kenya. The platform offers a vast array of content, including user-generated videos, music, and original programming. While YouTube may not have the same level of curated content as some of the paid streaming services, it remains a popular choice among Kenyan viewers, especially for its accessibility and diverse content offerings.
Packages.
- Free. Ad-supported, free streaming
- YouTube Premium. KES 1,000 per month (ad-free streaming, exclusive content, offline viewing)
6. Disney+
Disney+ is a relatively new player in the Kenyan streaming market, but it has already gained a loyal following among Kenyan viewers. The platform offers a wide range of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, making it a popular choice for families and fans of these popular franchises. While Disney+ is not yet officially available in Kenya, some Kenyan viewers have found ways to access the platform through various means.
Packages.
- Disney+. KES 1,000 per month (HD streaming, multiple devices, offline viewing)
7. Plex TV
Plex TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service that allows users to access live TV, movies, and shows. The platform is particularly appealing to Kenyan viewers who want a more customizable streaming experience, as it allows users to create their own media libraries and access content from various sources. Plex TV is compatible with a wide range of devices, making it accessible to a diverse audience.
Packages.
- Free. Ad-supported, free streaming
- Plex Pass. KES 500 per month (ad-free streaming, exclusive content, offline viewing)
8. iRoko TV
iRoko TV is a Nigerian-based streaming platform that has gained popularity in Kenya and other parts of Africa. The platform specializes in African content, including Nollywood movies and TV shows, as well as some Kenyan content. iRoko TV offers a range of subscription plans, making it accessible to a wide range of Kenyan viewers.
Packages.
- Basic Plan. KES 200 per month (SD streaming, one screen)
- Premium Plan. KES 500 per month (HD streaming, multiple screens, offline viewing)
- VIP Plan. KES 1,000 per month (HD and 4K streaming, multiple screens, offline viewing, exclusive content)
The streaming landscape in Kenya is diverse and competitive, with numerous platforms vying for the attention of viewers. When choosing the best streaming service, factors such as content selection, pricing, device compatibility, and the availability of local content should be considered. Many Kenyan viewers opt for a combination of streaming services to access the diverse range of content available. As the streaming market in Kenya continues to evolve, consumers can expect to see more options and competition, ultimately benefiting the end-user
