In a world where fame often overshadows acts of kindness, Kenya is home to several celebrities who have defied the norm and used their influence and resources to make a positive impact on society.
These philanthropic individuals have dedicated themselves to various causes, ranging from education and healthcare to addressing hunger and supporting vulnerable communities.
Here are some of the most generous celebrities in Kenya and their remarkable acts of philanthropy.
Mike Sonko
- Adoption of Baby Osinya:
- 2014, Adopted Satrin Osinya, who was shot in the head during an al Shabaab attack, providing a loving home for him and his siblings.
- Rescuing 102-year-old Woman:
- 2015, Fought for the rights of a centenarian who was forcefully evicted by a land grabber, providing household goods, foodstuff, a wheelchair, and building materials to help her start a new life.
- Assisting Detained Women:
- 2013, Intervened to release over 105 women who were detained in hospitals due to their inability to settle hefty medical bills, ensuring they could return home to their families.
- Congestina Achieng’s Rehabilitation:
- 2023, played a vital role in rehabilitating former boxing champion Congestina Achieng, providing support for her medical treatment and helping her regain stability in life.
- Supporting Ngesh Kaveve Kazoze:
- 2023, has extended assistance to Ngesh Kaveve Kazoze, a Kenyan athlete facing challeinges and financial constraints, supporting her in pursuing her music career and overcoming obstacles.
- Assisting Grade 2 Pupil in Narok County:
- Ongoing
- Sonko came to the aid of a Grade 2 pupil from Siyiape Primary School in Narok County, providing school attires, settling outstanding fees, securing boarding admission, and catering for her needs, including pocket money and shopping.
- Secured Form One Admission, for a needy girl Margret Koki at State House Girls. Margaret Koki who hails from Ekalakala, matuu scored 372 marks in the 2022
- Sonko Rescue Team:
- Year: Ongoing initiative
- Sonko established the Sonko Rescue Team, offering free emergency services to Nairobi residents and providing assistance in other counties, such as Nakuru.
Akothee
- Donating Food to Turkana Residents:
- Year: 2019
- Akothee donated food to residents of Turkana, a region heavily affected by drought and famine.
- Birthday Donation to Needy Families Affected by COVID-19 in Kilifi:
- Year: 2020
- Akothee donated Ksh 500,000 on her birthday to support needy families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Kilifi County.
- Support for Ladies Working in Nightclubs:
- Year: 2020
- Akothee donated Ksh 50,000, which she received from Ezekiel Mutua, to support ladies working in nightclubs.
- Pledging Sanitary Towels Support to Michelle Obama School:
- Year: 2021
- Akothee pledged support for sanitary towels at the Michelle Obama School in K’Ogelo, Kenya, aiming to provide hygiene products to young girls.
- Akothee Foundation Academy:
- Year: 2022
- Akothee donated 7 acres of land to her foundation and revealed plans to open the Akothee Foundation Academy, a school offering free education to the less fortunate.
Eric Omondi
- April 19, 2023:
- bought and gifted school uniforms to four needy school children from Joash Olum Primary School.
- Assisting Stivo Simple Boy 26th june 2023:
- provided financial assistance to musician Stivo Simple Boy, who was facing financial constraints, helping him overcome his challenges.
- Distributing Unga to Citizens:
- distributed unga (maize flour) to random citizens along Langata Road, providing food support to those in need.
- Settling Hospital Bills:
- paid the hospital bills of five women who were detained at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, ensuring their release.
- Bail Out:
- bailed out a bodaboda rider who couldn’t afford to pay a fine for a traffic offense, highlighting the challenges faced by many in society.
Elsa Majimbo
- Year: 2022
- Elsa Majimbo donated over KSh 70 million to individuals and organizations in need.Elsa decided to give back as a 20-year-old after realizing she didn’t need such a substantial amount of money and wanted to make a difference.
Wawira Njiru
- Founder of Food 4 Education:
- Wawira Njiru founded Food 4 Education, a non-profit organization that provides nutritious meals to school children in Kenya.
- The organization has delivered over 6,000,000 meals, improving nutrition, school attendance, performance, and high school transition rates.
Other philanthropic celebrities in Kenya and their philanthropic acts include
- Huddah Monroe: The Huddah established the Huddah Foundation, which focuses on supporting children from low-income backgrounds. Through her charitable efforts, she brings hope and smiles to the faces of many.
- Janet Mbugua: Janet Mbugua uses her platform to champion women’s and girls’ rights in Kenya. Her dedication to creating positive change in their lives is an inspiration.
- Jaguar: This musician and member of parliament prioritizes giving back to society. Jaguar’s financial contributions have supported education, healthcare, and street families, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.
- King Kaka: With his ‘Bank On Me Menstrual Walk’ campaign, King Kaka has helped provide sanitary towels to thousands of school-going girls. His dedication to breaking the stigma surrounding menstrual health is commendable.
- Daddy Owen: Despite facing personal challenges, Daddy Owen established the Malaika Foundation to assist people living with disabilities. The foundation provides financial support for medical expenses and disability benefits.
- Holy Dave: Founder of the Holy Dave Foundation, Dave focuses on addressing issues such as poverty and school expenses. His efforts aim to uplift and empower those in need.