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‘The Polygamist’ author Sue Nyathi warns against piracy in Nairobi after Netflix series boost
23rd June, 2026 11:56 AM
Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi has raised concern over the sale of pirated copies of her best-selling novel ‘The Polygamist’ in Nairobi, calling on readers to avoid purchasing unauthorised books.
Through a post shared on her social media pages on Monday, June 22, 2026, the author, whose novel was adapted into the popular Netflix South African series, addressed the issue, where she directly warned her followers about copyright infringement involving her work.
Her remarks come at a time when the book has gained renewed attention following the success of its Netflix adaptation.
Author warns fans against buying pirated books
Nyathi directed her message specifically to Kenyan readers who discovered ‘The Polygamist’ through the Netflix series and are now seeking physical copies of the book.
She stated that she had received information about a bookstore in Nairobi selling pirated versions of her work and urged fans not to support such sales.
“This post is specifically for my Kenyan followers who loved The Polygamist series on Netflix and now want to binge read the book. It has come to my attention that there is a bookstore in Nairobi selling pirated copies. It might not be the only bookstore but please do not buy pirated copies,” she wrote.
She further explained that she is working to make the book officially available across the East African region through authorised distributors.
“I am working day and night to make sure the book becomes available in the East African region. Copyright infringement is a crime and a violation of my rights,” she added.
Nyathi directly called out the establishment while reminding readers about the importance of respecting intellectual property rights.
“There are pirated copies of ThePolygamist being sold in Nairobi Street. I know the book is in demand and I am working to make it available there through a reputable supplier. Copyright infringement is a crime. Do not support the violation,” she wrote.
Rising demand following Netflix success
The renewed attention around The Polygamist follows its adaptation into a Netflix series. The show tells the story of Jonasi, a wealthy businessman whose life begins to fall apart due to infidelity and personal excesses.
Since its release on June 12, the series has attracted strong viewership across several countries, including Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, France, Jamaica, Italy and Hungary. It also ranked highly on Netflix’s global charts, recording millions of viewing hours within its first week.
Concerns over piracy in the region
Nyathi’s statement has raised conversations around literary piracy in Kenya, an issue that continues to affect authors and publishers despite growing demand for African literature.
The author’s appeal now adds to ongoing calls within the creative industry for stronger enforcement of copyright laws and better protection of intellectual property rights across the region.
