The Kenyan social and political landscape has been reshaped by a new generation of vocal figures whose content creation, activism, and online presence have left an indelible mark and in turn left them as celebrities.
From challenging government policies to using humor and dance to connect with audiences, these individuals have leveraged digital platforms and grassroots movements to influence public discourse.
In the wake of protests, social media campaigns, and viral moments, personalities like Kasmuel McOure, Mjaka Mfine, Hanifa Adan, Kabuda, and Gen Z Goliath emerged.
In this article, we dive into the stories of these remarkable little-known Kenyans who defined the socio-political and digital landscape and emerged as celebrities.
Little-Known Kenyan Celebrities Who Gained Fame in 2024
Gen Z Goliath (Bradley Marongo) (Social Media Personality)
Bradley Marongo, better known as “Gen Z Goliath,” is a towering figure in Kenyan social media culture, standing at an incredible 8 feet tall.
His height has made him a viral sensation, with many fans naming him the “Kenyan giant.”
Marongo first gained widespread attention during the 2024 Finance Bill protests, where his towering presence caught the eye of both protesters and authorities alike.
Despite his size, Bradley is a humble individual who has used his social media presence to engage with his followers, sharing his experiences and struggles, particularly those related to his height.
He has openly discussed the challenges of finding clothes and shoes that fit him, as well as the difficulties in leading a normal life due to the constant attention he receives.
Outside of social media, Bradley was working as a tout in Kangemi and now engages in content creation. His unique stature has made him a symbol of both curiosity and inspiration.
Additionally, he has started securing brand endorsements and offers from local and international companies.
His story is one of overcoming adversity, and his growing recognition speaks to the power of embracing one’s unique identity in a society that often places emphasis on conformity.
Nelson Amenya
Nelson Amenya is an activist and investigative journalist who has made a name for himself in Kenya as a prominent whistleblower.
His most high-profile revelation was regarding the controversial lease of Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the Adani Group, a deal that he helped expose.
Through his detailed investigations, Amenya revealed how the deal was marred by a lack of transparency and suspicion of corruption.
His persistence in pushing for accountability led to public outcry and the eventual cancellation of the deal.
This move was hailed as a victory for Kenyan citizens who often feel powerless against government deals conducted in secrecy.
Also Read: JKIA-Linked Billionaire Adani Charged Over Bribery
His efforts, especially his role in exposing the impending Adani deal, helped spark national debate on the need for stringent checks on public-private partnerships in Kenya.
Amenya’s rise to prominence has been closely tied to social media, where his posts, investigative pieces, and callouts often go viral, influencing public opinion.
His willingness to expose uncomfortable truths and challenge influential figures has made him a symbol of courage in the fight for justice, and his work continues to inspire budding activists and journalists.
Kabuda (Andy Shahonyo) (Content Creator and Dancer)
Kabuda, whose real name is Andy Shahonyo, is a popular content creator and dancer known for his energetic and comedic performances.
Originally from Kasarani, Kabuda gained fame after he posted a viral video of himself dancing to the popular “Mzabibu” song. This video, which garnered millions of views, marked the beginning of his career as a content creator.
Before venturing into the world of online content creation, Kabuda worked as a matatu tout, a job that he credits for helping shape his comedic style in content creation.
His days in the matatu industry gave him the opportunity to entertain commuters, and it was during this time that he began experimenting with dance and comedy, unaware that his future career would emerge from this phase.
Today, Kabuda’s rise to fame is largely due to his vibrant personality and dedication to entertaining his fans.
With a massive following on TikTok and other platforms, he has become one of the most recognizable content creators among Kenyans.
His success has attracted lucrative brand deals and collaborations, making him a prominent figure in both the entertainment and influencer space.
Kabuda attributes his success to divine intervention and the constant support of his family, particularly his mother, who serves as his manager.
Mjaka Mfine (Content Creator)
Mjaka Mfine is a Kenyan content creator who has steadily risen in popularity thanks to her comedic and sometimes controversial takes on current events.
Known for her humor and ability to blend entertainment with social commentary, Mjaka has captivated an audience across various social media platforms.
Her comedic style often mixes satire with hard-hitting truth, making him relatable to many young Kenyans.
Mjaka’s content primarily revolves around the political and social issues affecting Kenyans, using humor to engage and educate.
Cop Shakur
Despite being a police officer, Jackson Kuria Kihara, also known as Shakur the Cop, was firmly against the Finance Bill 2024.
The 25-year-old officer gained fame for his outspoken stance against the Finance Bill 2024 and the controversial police mission in Haiti.
Shakur went viral when photos showing him in the protests against the government went viral on social media.
Morara Kebaso (Lawyer-turned Politician)
Morara Kebaso is a multifaceted Kenyan public figure, blending law, media, and social activism. Known for his sharp wit and eloquence, Kebaso has managed to carve a unique space in the media landscape with his satirical yet thought-provoking commentary.
His comedic approach often involves impersonating high-profile figures like President William Ruto, allowing him to blend humor with criticism in ways that resonate deeply with the Kenyan public.
His political commentary, delivered with a blend of satire and sharp insight, has turned him into a significant voice in national discourse.
But Kebaso’s contributions are more than just comedic; they delve into serious investigative journalism.
A strong proponent of good governance, Kebaso frequently highlights and critiques the inefficiency of government projects and exposes corruption.
His ability to balance entertainment with hard-hitting truths has made his content highly influential, particularly on social media, where his followers include government officials, activists, and ordinary citizens alike.
Kebaso’s platform serves as a battleground for challenging the status quo.
He is also recognized for his work in public policy and his passionate involvement in campaigns that demand more accountability from government institutions.
His ability to break down complex issues in an easily digestible and humorous format has earned him significant attention.
Kebaso’s social media presence not only brings attention to key issues but also educates the public, making him a critical player in Kenya’s fight against corruption.
In addition to his political content, Kebaso has also become involved in various initiatives aimed at improving access to justice and advocating for civic rights.
His work is an embodiment of how the media can both entertain and educate, making him one of the key figures in Kenya’s evolving landscape of social activism.
Kasmuel McOure (Activist)
Kasmuel McOure became a prominent figure due to his involvement in Kenya’s political protests, particularly around the rejection of the Finance Bill 2024.
He gained recognition for his vocal stand against what he perceived as unfair governmental policies and the lack of transparency in governance.
In addition, the artist used social media to mobilize and unite Kenyans, often advocating for civil liberties, human rights, and accountability from those in power.
Kasmuel’s activism led to him being one of the key figures in the protests, and his online presence helped rally support, particularly among youth who felt the government’s actions were undermining their future.
His platform grew as he continued to call out both government inefficiency and corruption.
Through his work, he has become not just an activist but a voice for the voiceless, using his platform to highlight critical national issues.
Despite his activism, Kasmuel’s personal life remains humble. He continues to be vocal about the need for reform, often calling for peaceful engagement while standing firm on the issues that matter most to his audience.
Hanifa Adan (Activist and Journalist)
Hanifa Adan, often referred to as “Honey Farsafi,” rose to prominence as an outspoken activist during the 2024 Finance Bill protests which makes her feature in this list of celebrities.
Holding a degree in journalism and mass communication, Hanifa leveraged her skills to shine a light on the government’s actions, particularly the fatalities and injuries resulting from the protests.
Also Read: Hanifa Clarifies Why She Took Social Media Break
She became a symbol of activism, advocating for the injured and the families of Kenyans who lost their lives during the protests.
Hanifa’s campaign, “Care for the Injured,” raised millions of shillings, which were used to fund medical bills and funeral expenses for the victims of the demonstrations.
This campaign showcased her dedication to social justice and integrity, especially when she offered a detailed audit of the funds, debunking accusations of embezzlement.
Her transparency led to her being invited as a panelist at the African Philanthropy Forum 2024, cementing her place as a trusted figure in activism.
In addition, her dual role as a journalist and advocate has allowed her to influence both public opinion and policy, pushing for more accountability and human rights protections in Kenya.
Hanifa’s writings have not only tackled the aftermath of the protests but also highlighted the broader issues of government inefficiency, corruption, and impunity.
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