London-based Kenyan actor Lenana Kariba has opened up about life abroad, balancing family and career, and his much-anticipated return in Season 4 of the hit drama series Single Kiasi.
Speaking ahead of the new season’s release, Kariba reflected on how his unplanned move to the United Kingdom turned into one of the best decisions of his life.
“Honestly, moving to the UK was never on my vision board,” he said. “I wasn’t sitting there plotting my big British takeover – but then life, as it loves to do, threw me a plot twist. I met my now wife, and before I knew it, she had to head back to the UK. Something just told me everything would be okay.”
What began as a leap of faith, he explained, soon became a blessing. “It turned out to be the best move I’ve ever made. The UK’s been amazing; I love it here.
Sometimes, the unplanned moves end up being the best chapters in your story.”
Now settled in London and raising a two-year-old daughter, Kariba continues to work across continents, flying back to Kenya for filming commitments. Despite the demanding schedule, he says he’s grateful to work with a team that understands his unique circumstances.
“I’m quite fortunate with these gigs. The people I work with, especially Philip and Grace, are absolute gems,” he shared. “This season I was in Kenya for just three weeks, filming back-to-back. Then it’s straight back to normal life. It’s a bit of a whirlwind, but somehow it works perfectly.”
Kariba reprises his role as Nick, whose complicated love life once again takes centre stage in Single Kiasi Season 4.
After the explosive Season 3 finale, which saw Nick in bed with Sintamei (Gathoni Mutua), fans were left questioning the fate of his relationship with Rebecca (Faith Kibathi).
Nick’s journey this season, Kariba hinted, is one of redemption and emotional honesty. “I think Nick is a nice guy, he really is. But everything seems to be against him. Still, he’s sincere and genuinely trying to make things work.”
As for what’s next, he remains focused on both family and new opportunities. “We’ve finished this season, and I’m heading back to the UK. I have some projects lined up, but I can’t talk about them yet. For now, I’m just enjoying raising my daughter.”
While many expect him to chase international roles, he insists his move wasn’t about career ambition.
“A lot of people move abroad to build their careers, and that’s great. But I moved to start my family. Still, I’m definitely working on more projects here. You can look forward to seeing what comes next.”