Media personality Willis Raburu has secured a significant legal victory in his ongoing battle with East African Breweries PLC (EABL). A Nairobi court has ordered the beverage giant to deposit Kenya Shillings 10 million as security in a joint account held by the parties' lawyers.
The ruling, delivered by Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. A. Nyoike, comes after Raburu’s firm, Steizon Limited, sued EABL and Game Changer Marketing Limited. The dispute centres on unpaid services allegedly rendered during the Furaha City Festival in December 2024.
A Boost for the Creative Industry
Shortly after the ruling was delivered via the MS Teams platform, Raburu took to his Facebook stories to share the news with his followers. He expressed deep satisfaction with the court's direction.
“While this is not the final determination of the matter, it is a significant step forward and reinforces our confidence in the independence of Kenya's Judiciary and the rule of law,” Raburu posted.
“Beyond this case, I hope today's ruling sends a powerful message to Kenya's creative industry, entrepreneurs, and innovators,” he added.
The Ten Million Shilling Campaign
The court documents reveal the scale of the work Raburu performed for the "Furaha" event. His firm claims to have executed a massive digital campaign.
While Raburu maintains he was orally engaged for a fee of Ksh 10 million plus VAT, the defendants disputed the existence of a separate contract for the festival. EABL argued that the event was part of an earlier "Wabebe" campaign for which payment had already been made.
The Judge’s Determination
In his ruling, Magistrate Nyoike noted that while a final decision on the contract's existence requires a full trial, the request for a security deposit was fair.
The court order states:
“Orders do hereby issue compelling the 2nd Defendant to deposit a security of Kenya shillings 10 million in a joint account of Counsel representing the parties pending the hearing and determination of this suit.”
The magistrate highlighted that this measure ensures the plaintiff is protected should they eventually win the case.
The Road Ahead
Willis Raburu, a veteran of the Kenyan media scene known for his long tenure as a TV host and entertainer, has vowed to see the case to its conclusion. Information from general online sources indicates Raburu has recently transitioned into more independent digital consultancy and influencer roles, making this case a landmark for his new business ventures.
Reflecting on the legal journey, Raburu praised his advocates, Danstan Omari & Associates.
The case will now proceed to a full hearing to determine the final settlement.
