Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has arrived in Kenya to begin production on a new Netflix original film tentatively titled Bahari ya Moyo, which will be shot on location in Nairobi’s Mathare and the historic island of Lamu.

The film, directed by Kenyan filmmaker Wanuri Kahiu, explores the story of a Kenyan woman navigating identity, belonging, and love across two generations. Lupita also serves as a co-producer on the project.

“Coming home to create is the most meaningful thing I can do,” Lupita said at a press briefing in Nairobi. “Kenya is not just my background — it’s my story.”

The film is expected to premiere on Netflix globally in early 2027.