Netflix has appointed Kaye-Ann Williams as its new director of Scripted Content for Africa, to bolster the streaming platform’s local storytelling.
Williams, to assume her role in February, will oversee the creation and development of African original films and series. She will report to Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s vice president for Middle East and Africa Content.
With over 16 years of experience in South Africa’s film and television industry, Kaye-Ann Williams brings a wealth of experience to Netflix. Her career includes roles such as head of Scripted Series and Movies at Prime Video/Amazon Studios, where she focused on South African productions, and vice president of Content at Primedia Studios.
Williams also previously worked with MultiChoice, where she took part in commissioning and producing local films and series.
Speaking on Williams’ appointment, Amadasun commended her contributions to African television: “Kaye-Ann is a true champion of world-class storytelling and has worked with the best creative talent in South Africa, helping them to create some of the most ambitious projects on African television. I’m delighted to welcome Kaye-Ann to the team as we strengthen our long-term commitment to African storytelling.”
Williams steps into this role following the exit of Tendeka Matatu, who served as Netflix’s director of Local Language Films for Africa for three years. Matatu’s work included productions such as Heart of the Hunter and Kandasamys: The Baby. While his next move is not yet known, Netflix has shown gratitude for his contributions.
Netflix’s leadership change comes as the company reiterates its focus on African content, even in the midst of presumption about the sustainability of international investments in the region.
Earlier this year, Amazon scaled back its African operations, leading to talks that other streaming platforms might follow suit. However, Netflix has dismissed these fears, stating it is “strengthening its investment in African storytelling,” with Williams’ appointment stressing this position.
Since debuting its first African original series, Queen Sono, in 2020, Netflix has expanded its portfolio. The platform has partnered with notable filmmakers such as Mandla Dube (Silverton Siege), the Ramaphakela siblings (How to Ruin Christmas), and Jayan Moodley (The Kandasamys franchise).
At the recent MIP Africa event in Cape Town, Netflix unveiled upcoming projects, including a new series titled Blood Legacy from Blood & Water producer Gambit Films, and a reality show, Love Never Lies: South Africa.
Netflix’s focus on African storytelling aligns with its goal to deliver culturally diverse content to its global audience.
