Author Sue Nyathi raises alarm over pirated copies of 'The Polygamist' in Nairobi

Award-winning author Sue Nyathi has raised the alarm over the sale of pirated copies of her novel, The Polygamist, at a bookshop along Ronald Ngala Street in Nairobi, warning that copyright infringement continues to pose a serious threat to the publishing industry.

The novel has experienced a massive surge in demand across Africa following its recent portrayal in a hit Netflix series, which catapulted the story into the global spotlight.

This instant on-screen popularity has made the book a prime target for counterfeiters looking to cash in on the buzz.

In a statement shared online, Nyathi said unauthorised copies of her newly famous novel were being sold at Affordable Books, a bookstore in Nairobi’s central business district.

She expressed deep concern over the illegal distribution, noting that while the Netflix adaptation has sparked a massive rush for the book, piracy completely undermines the efforts of authors, publishers, and legitimate booksellers.

There are pirated copies of #ThePolygamist being sold at Affordable Books in Nairobi along Ronald Ngala Street. I know the book is in demand & I'm working to make it available there through a reputable supplier. Copyright infringement is a crime. Don't support the violation! pic.twitter.com/owlGBkCXz5

— Sue Nyathi (@SueNyathi) June 22, 2026

"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," Nyadhi said.

The revelation has triggered intense discussion among readers and publishing stakeholders about the rising challenge of book piracy in Kenya, especially when local literature gains international streaming attention.

Industry players say the sale of counterfeit books deprives authors of well-deserved income, particularly during rare moments of massive mainstream breakthrough, and discourages creativity by denying writers fair compensation for their intellectual property.

Kenya’s copyright laws protect literary works from unauthorized reproduction and distribution.

Individuals or businesses found selling pirated materials risk legal action, fines, and other penalties under intellectual property regulations.

Publishing experts have also urged booksellers to verify the authenticity of their stock and work directly with licensed suppliers, saying efforts to curb piracy require cooperation among authors, publishers, booksellers, and consumers.

Nyathi said she remains committed to making legitimate copies of her novel available through trusted distribution channels, stressing the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and supporting the creative industry by purchasing authentic editions.