Kenyan creatives Abel Mutua and Phil Karanja won two major awards at the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) held in Nigeria this past weekend.
Their production company, PhilIt Productions, won with their films Makosa Ni Yangu and Untying Kantai, standing out among Africa’s best.
Makosa Ni Yangu scooped the award for Best Indigenous Language (East Africa), while Untying Kantai took home the coveted Best Writing, TV Series award. The recognition marked a huge milestone for the duo and the growing Kenyan film industry.
Judy Nyawira, Abel’s wife, who works closely with the two filmmakers, celebrated the achievement with heartfelt words on social media.
“This was last night at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in Nigeria. We won two awards! Our super director @mkay_m thank you for representing us last night! To the cast and crew of both shows, makofi kwenu! To Phil_director and Abel Mutua I’m so proud of you. Watching you build, brick by brick, with so much heart and intention, is inspiring. I pray that God keeps you both strong and in this world long enough to fully enjoy the fruits of your labor. You deserve every bit of it.” Judy said.
Abel Mutua also shared a reflective post after the event, expressing gratitude for the fans who have supported him throughout his journey. “Four years ago, thanks to your unwavering support, we started this film journey. These right here are the fruits of your labour.”
“For Untying Kantai I’d like to personally thank the Phil-It Think tank. You’re the reason the trophy is coming to Nairobi.” He added,
Mutua praised fellow writers, directors, cast, and crew, acknowledging their creativity and commitment that led to this international recognition. With these wins, Kenyan content continues to make bold strides on the continental stage.
