New Netflix documentary drama “African Queens: Njinga” is streaming on Netflix. The docudrama narrated and executive produced by Jada Pinkett Smith, focuses on warrior Queen Njinga of Angola — whose story is told through interviews and reenactments.

Speaking about the documentary in a recent interview, the show’s Executive Producer Maxine Watson said she hopes the series inspires a new generation of filmmakers. 

“Now is a wise time to launch as “The Woman King” and “Wakanda Forever” have made it easier for Netflix to tell this story,” she said. “We’re hoping this could inspire the next generation.

Who is Queen Njinga?

If you’re just finding out about this Angolan matriarch, in short, all you need to know is that she defined 17th Century Angola.

According to UNESCO’s “Women in African History” module, Njinga Mbandi was the Queen of Ndongo and Matamba, what is known today as Angola, from 1624 –1663 after she took over from her brother King Ngola Mbandi.

During her reign, she quickly distinguished herself as an excellent sovereign particularly when it came to resisting the Portuguese.

Her tactics in warfare and espionage, her diplomatic skills, her ability to forge numerous strategic alliances, and her knowledge of trade and religious issues served her well in tenaciously resisting Portugal’s colonialist aspirations until her death in 1663.

Why are there so many spellings of her name?

A quick Google search will have you confused as to the spelling of her name. According to many historical recollections, the Mother of Angola’s name is recorded as “Nzhinga” but the mistake is expected of many Western Historians who couldn’t pronounce “Queen Njinga”. (See Western anchors mispronounce Nyong’o).

However, in the Kimbudu language, one of the major languages spoken in Angola, the name is recorded as “Njinga” with a silent “n.”

Scope of the series

The docudrama is based on Linda Heywood, who wrote the book the season is based on and who also acted as an advisor for the show. Following the same formula as another Netflix docudrama, “The Last Czars”, the show will weave 80% historical facts and add some drama to create a cohesive and compelling story.

The show, filmed in South Africa, will feature four episodes exploring the life and reign of Queen Njinga and the true story of the African Queen who successfully fought off Portuguese slavers and inspired a nation. 

Queen Njinga will be the focus for most of Season One as the series gears for Queen Cleopatra in the second season.

All four episodes are streaming on Netflix Kenya.