His sudden death has left many in shock, especially those in the arts community in Mombasa, where he was a well-known figure.
How He Became Famous
Raye gained internet fame after a video of him speaking at an event at the Mombasa Little Theatre Club went viral.
The clip, in which he repeatedly greeted the audience with "Habari zenu", spread quickly on social media, especially TikTok.
Popular comedy groups like the Huruma Town Kids even recreated the scene, making it even more famous.
The original video was recorded when a scheduled play failed to start on time, leaving the audience frustrated.
Raye, who was the club’s secretary, stepped up to address the crowd and calm the situation.
His unique way of speaking and body language made the moment stand out, and soon, it became a widely shared meme.
His Contribution to the Arts
Beyond the viral moment, Raye was deeply involved in promoting arts and culture in Mombasa.
As the secretary of the Little Theatre Club, he played a key role in organizing events, supporting local artists, and keeping the theatre scene alive.
His colleagues described him as a dedicated and passionate leader who was always willing to help others. The Little Theatre Club released a heartfelt statement mourning his passing, saying:
"Nolly was more than a leader to us. He was a shining light, a strong voice for the arts, and a dedicated member of our community. His contributions will never be forgotten."
Many artists and fans also shared their condolences online, thanking Raye for his impact on the arts.
Controversy Over the Viral Video
Despite the popularity of the "Habari zenu" video, Raye was not entirely happy about how it was shared.
In an interview, he expressed disappointment that people focused only on his greeting rather than the reason behind it.
He believed the person who uploaded the video should have given more context instead of making him look like a joke.
"I felt like they should have explained why I said what I said instead of just making fun of me," he once said.
Plans to Trademark His Catchphrase
Before his passing, Raye had revealed plans to legally claim ownership of the "Habari zenu" phrase.
He wanted to trademark it and warned against its unauthorized use. It is unclear whether he managed to complete the legal process.
As the Mombasa arts community mourns his loss, plans are underway to hold a memorial service in his honour.
The Little Theatre Club has promised to keep his legacy alive by continuing the work he was so passionate about.
Rest in peace, Nolly Wilson Raye.
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