Renowned Kenyan comedian Njugush has voiced his deep concern over reports that the government is building a massive KSh 1.2 billion church at State House, Nairobi, at a time when many Kenyans are struggling to access basic healthcare.
The multi-talented entertainer shared a front-page newspaper image that juxtaposed two stories: one about the construction of the new State House church, and the other about Kenyans under the Social Health Authority (SHA) being forced to pay for essential medicines out of pocket despite being insured. Kidney patients, in particular, were reported to be paying for services twice in public hospitals.
The comedian’s reaction was one of disbelief and frustration. In his post, he questioned the government’s priorities, highlighting the disparity between the grand scale of the proposed place of worship and the everyday struggles of ordinary citizens trying to afford basic health services.
The proposed church, reportedly dubbed “The Cathedral,” is designed to hold over 8,000 worshippers. With architectural features like towering glass windows and a striking main tower crowned with a cross, the structure is set to be a grand spectacle near the presidential helipad.
Njugush’s commentary struck a nerve with many Kenyans online, with his followers expressing shock and anger at what they saw as a misplaced use of public funds. Some asked whether State House was becoming a personal property, while others lamented that such extravagance was happening when the country was still reeling from economic hardship and rising healthcare costs.
In the comments, many expressed their rage and disappointment in humorous yet biting tones. One person remarked that if they had slept earlier, they wouldn’t have had to wake up to such news. Another sarcastically recalled an old song about building a church, joking that “Kasongo has decided himself.” Others described the report as heartbreaking and asked who exactly the government was serving.
Frustration was also evident in remarks suggesting that perhaps it was the public who were crazy for expecting better. The overall mood was a blend of anger, sadness, and helplessness.
Njugush has recently become a familiar face in national protests demanding accountability and reform. On June 25, he took part in peaceful demonstrations, aligning himself with youth-led movements that have been calling out government overspending, corruption, and lack of service delivery.
Ahead of the protests, he shared a light-hearted post showing himself lying next to what he termed his “protest essentials”—a Kenyan flag, timer, basketballs, water bottle, jersey, and body oil—stressing that his participation was peaceful and unarmed. During the demonstrations, he was seen in videos raising his hands in solidarity among fellow protesters.
Through his platform, Njugush has continued to amplify public concerns, especially those affecting the common citizen. His reaction to the church construction at State House further cements his position as one of the many public figures using their voice to demand transparency, justice, and responsible governance.
