President Ruto Donates Sh1M to Comedian KK Mwenyewe's Family

President William Ruto has extended a Sh1 million donation to the family of the late comedian Zakaria Kariuki, widely known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, who passed away on July 14, 2025.

The announcement was made by Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, during a candlelighting event held in honor of the popular content creator.

Itumbi stated that he would personally deliver the sum to KK Mwenyewe's mother to assist with family planning.

“The president has said even if you are saying he must go, he has given a one-million-shilling donation. When I sat here, I asked how much was remaining in the budget, and I was told it was Sh1.2 million. But with Sh1.5 million (plus Itumbi's Sh500,000), haven't we finished that?

“I have requested Kafengo to allow me to take the money to the mother at home so that she can plan with it,”Itumbi said.

Mr. KK Mwenyewe rose to prominence through his satirical skits, notably for his uncanny impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

His comedic portrayals, which often mimicked Gachagua's distinctive speaking style, mannerisms, and even his attire, resonated widely with Kenyans, earning him a significant following across social media platforms like TikTok, where he amassed over a million followers.

Despite his growing popularity and the public's hope that his talent would be acknowledged and supported by the politician he mimicked, direct engagement or financial assistance from Gachagua did not materialize during the comedian's lifetime.   

The news of KK Mwenyewe's demise at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital after a short illness prompted an outpouring of tributes from various figures, including politicians and fellow comedians. Among those who publicly mourned him was former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who shared his condolences on X (formerly Twitter).

Gachagua described KK Mwenyewe as a "consistent and resilient young man" who used comedy to "communicate simple and creative messages to all Kenyans." However, Gachagua's tribute was met with significant backlash from a section of the Kenyan public.

Many online users questioned the sincerity and timing of his message, recalling instances where the comedian had reportedly sought support or acknowledgment from Gachagua without success.

Several voices, including Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, publicly stated that they had approached Gachagua in 2022 to request financial support for Kariuki's university fees and a potential job opportunity, but these pleas were reportedly dismissed.

Comparisons were drawn to another youth who famously coined the nickname "Riggy G" for Gachagua and subsequently received employment.   Critics on social media accused Gachagua of "hypocrisy" and failing to recognize KK Mwenyewe's talent and contributions while he was alive, instead choosing to offer condolences only after his passing.

Comments such as "You failed to recognize him when he was alive... Let those who stood with him mourn in peace" reflected the public's sentiment regarding the perceived lack of prior support.

Despite the online criticism directed at Gachagua, other leaders, including Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, also mourned KK Mwenyewe, praising his unique ability to use satire to reflect societal realities and unite the Kenyan people.