President Ruto Donates KSh 1 Million to Late Comedian KK Mwenyewe’s Family as Kenya Prepares for His Burial
President William Ruto has donated KSh 1 million to the family of beloved comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, to support his burial arrangements, ahead of his funeral scheduled for Wednesday, July 23rd.
The announcement was made by Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, during a candlelighting ceremony held to honor the late content creator. Itumbi shared that he would personally deliver the funds to KK's mother, offering her the space and dignity to plan with it.
“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.”
The donation, Itumbi added, would cover most of the pending expenses in the funeral budget. He also contributed KSh 100,000 personally, bringing his total support to KSh 500,000, including earlier commitments.
💸 Other Leaders Who Contributed Toward the Burial:
- Governor Susan Kihika (Nakuru) – KSh 200,000
- RaDiCO (Radio Digital Communication Org.) – KSh 100,000
- MP Kimani Ichungwa – KSh 100,000
- MP Mburu Kahangara – KSh 100,000
- Dennis Itumbi – KSh 100,000 (additional)
🎙️ KK Mwenyewe: The Voice of Satire
KK Mwenyewe made his mark with razor-sharp impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, capturing not only his voice and gestures but also reflecting deeper political and social commentary through humor.
His creativity earned him over 1 million followers on TikTok, and he became a fixture in Kenya’s digital comedy scene. But despite his widespread popularity, there was no record of material or public support from Gachagua during KK’s lifetime.
🧾 Tributes and Public Reactions
After his passing at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital, tributes poured in, among them, a message from Gachagua himself, who praised KK’s “resilience and creativity.” However, that message was met with fierce backlash from Kenyans online.
Many remembered how KK reportedly sought assistance with university fees and job opportunities to no avail. Critics quickly pointed to another youth, famed for coining the nickname "Riggy G" who was rewarded with employment, while KK, who built an entire comedic persona around the DP, received none.
“You failed to recognize him when he was alive,” one commenter wrote on social media. “Let those who stood with him mourn in peace.”
💡 A Moment of Reflection
Despite the public criticism aimed at Gachagua, several other leaders, including Senator Okiya Omtatah and MP Ndindi Nyoro, offered genuine tributes to KK, praising his ability to use satire as a lens through which Kenyans could view and understand current affairs.
This moment serves as a wake-up call for Kenya's creative ecosystem, highlighting the need for long-term structures that support, protect, and uplift artistic talent while they are still alive.
🕊️ Rest Well, KK
As preparations for his final sendoff continue, KK Mwenyewe's impact remains etched in the hearts of millions. His laughter lives on, even as the country mourns his loss.
Rest in Power, King of Satire. Your voice changed the game.
