Netflix Ends Kenya's Free Subscription Program

Netflix will stop plans for free subscriptions in Kenya (photo: dock. pexels)

JAKARTA - Netflix announced on Monday 9 October that it will be discontinuing plans for free subscriptions in Kenya that have allowed users to access a quarter of its events and films over the past two years without paying.

They did not reveal how many customers had been added as a result of this scheme, which was designed to help recruit new paid users.

"We have definitely learned a lot from this trial," a Netflix spokesperson told Reuters without giving details. "We will continue to offer various other plans."

Netflix is currently introducing ad-backed plans, offering monthly subscriptions for 4.99.000, but spokeswoman did not comment on its availability in Kenya.

Although low-middle-income economies such as Kenya offer great opportunities for streaming services for customer growth, they also face challenges as purchasing power declines due to inflation, industry executives say.

Under a free subscription that ends on November 1, viewers can watch Western-produced shows such as "Money Heist" and "Bridgerton," as well as those produced in Africa such as "Blood & Water."

Netflix has produced more original content from various countries in Africa as part of its strategy to attract new subscribers on the continent. They have also used partnerships with local telecommunications companies to simplify payments.