President William Ruto has donated Sh1 million to the family of the late Kenyan comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, who passed away while receiving treatment at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital last week.
The donation was delivered during a candlelight vigil held in KK Mwenyewe’s honour, where Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, represented the president. While addressing mourners and fellow creatives, Itumbi announced the contribution and expressed the President’s condolences.
“The president has said even if you are saying he must go, he has given a one-million-shilling donation,” said Itumbi. “I have requested Kafengo to allow me to take the money to the mother at home so that she can plan with it.”
Itumbi himself added Sh500,000 to the fundraising effort, helping the family meet their Sh1.5 million budget for funeral expenses.
KK Mwenyewe’s untimely death was confirmed on July 15 by fellow comedian Kafengo, sparking an outpouring of grief across the country. “We are heartbroken to announce the sudden demise of Zakaria Kariuki A.k.a Mr KK Mwenyewe,” he wrote on Facebook. “He passed away yesterday evening while undergoing medical attention.”
KK Mwenyewe rose to national prominence for his hilarious impersonations of Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His comedic skits, often shot on a low budget, captured the nuances of Gachagua’s speech patterns and mannerisms, earning him a loyal following on social media platforms.
His satire, though sharp, remained respectful and resonated with Kenyans navigating complex political and social landscapes. Many fans and colleagues described him as humble, creative, and deeply committed to his craft.
His passing marks a significant loss to Kenya’s creative community, particularly among a new generation of online comedians who admired his authenticity and brilliance.
As the country mourns, the President’s support serves as both a tribute and a reminder of KK Mwenyewe’s cultural impact. Plans for his burial are underway, with the comedian’s family now better equipped to give him a dignified send-off.
