DAR ES SALAAM: BONGO Movie actresses Rihama Ally and Shamila Rashid, popularly known as Bi Staa, are set to feature in a new film titled Koti Jeupe, scheduled to premiere on February 17, 2026 at the Dar Free Market in Dar es Salaam.
Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam, the film’s director and writer, Sylvia Lyimo, said the production aims to highlight the importance of health and life insurance, particularly how such protection can support families—especially children—when they are faced with unexpected tragedies.
“In this film, there is a young girl named Amanda who grows up in a stable and comfortable family under the care of her parents, Riyama and Ben Selengo. However, her life takes a sudden turn after her father passes away,” Lyimo explained.
She noted that the tragedy completely changes Amanda’s life trajectory, forcing her to move in with her uncle, whose questionable behavior negatively affects her well-being and educational aspirations.
The film reflects the real-life challenges faced by many Tanzanian girls who struggle with inadequate protection and guidance within their communities.
Bi Staa, who plays a close friend of Amanda’s mother, said her character emphasizes the importance of encouraging girls to continue with their education despite life’s hardships.
“Parenting today has changed significantly compared to the past. Back then, your neighbor’s child was also your child. Today, you cannot even discipline a neighbor’s child without being seen as overstepping boundaries,” she said.
She added that in the past, children could freely eat at a neighbor’s home and inform their parents without suspicion, but today social fears and changing attitudes have altered that sense of communal trust.
Actor Abdul Salum, popularly known as Ben Selengo, plays a devoted father determined to provide quality education and a better life for his daughter, despite the challenges that later confront the family.
Meanwhile, the actress portraying Amanda has called on society to be more responsible and protective toward children—especially girls—so they can pursue and achieve their dreams instead of being discouraged by unsafe environments.
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Koti Jeupe is expected to resonate strongly with audiences by portraying relatable Tanzanian family realities, while sparking broader discussions on parenting, community responsibility and the need for structured plans to safeguard children’s futures.