Veteran comedian and entertainer Mammito Eunice was spotted in the heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District as she joined thousands of Kenyans marking the first anniversary of the youth-led protests that turned deadly in 2024. The demonstrations, which aim to honor the memory of Gen Z youth who lost their lives during anti-government protests, drew widespread participation across the country — and Mammito’s appearance stood out.
Just three months after giving birth to her daughter on March 26, Mammito showed up in full protest gear. She wore an all-black outfit symbolizing mourning and resistance, with a Kenyan flag tied confidently around her neck. In hand was a bottle of water and a yellow whistle, which she blew in rhythm with other protestors who sat around her in groups. Her bold caption on social media read, “The milk has already been pumped. Now let us pump changes,” signaling her readiness to balance motherhood and civic engagement.
Her participation sparked conversations online, especially considering her recent motherhood. Many fans and fellow citizens applauded her courage, commitment, and timing. Some commenters joked about who she might have left her newborn with, while others praised her patriotism and the role artists are playing in amplifying citizens’ voices. Supportive messages flooded her comment section, with sentiments ranging from humor to heartfelt solidarity.
The June 25 demonstrations were not only a moment of remembrance but also a renewed call for justice and reform. Protesters filled the streets of major towns and cities, including Nairobi, Eldoret, and Machakos, calling for accountability, police reform, and government responsiveness. Many carried placards, wore symbolic colors, and chanted slogans against brutality and corruption.
Beyond the anniversary of the 2024 tragedy — where an estimated 60 young people were reportedly shot, some while attempting to access Parliament — the protests also spotlighted new grievances. Among them is the death of teacher Albert Ojwang while in police custody, which has added fuel to public outrage and demands for police accountability.
In Machakos, one protester lost their life, while others sustained injuries in clashes with police. Nairobi saw heightened tension around the Central Police Station, and in Eldoret, large crowds gathered to voice their frustrations and call for reform. In a troubling development, a female police officer was reportedly rushed to hospital after being attacked by a mob, reflecting the volatile nature of the protests.
Despite these intense scenes, media coverage was abruptly interrupted. The Communications Authority directed all television and radio stations to cease live broadcasting of the demonstrations, raising concerns over press freedom and public access to information.
Several other Kenyan celebrities had previously announced plans to attend, including comedians Njugush and Eric Omondi, rapper Khaligraph Jones, and actress Jackie Matubia. Their presence was intended to amplify the voices of ordinary citizens and show solidarity with victims and their families.
Mammito’s appearance, just months after welcoming her child, served as a powerful symbol of resilience and motherhood’s intersection with activism. Her participation underscored the growing influence of public figures in Kenya’s evolving civic landscape — where the fight for justice, freedom, and dignity continues, one step, one voice, and one whistle at a time.
