President William Ruto has donated KSh1 million to the family of the late comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, in support of funeral arrangements and to honour the young comic’s contribution to Kenya’s creative industry.
The announcement was made during a candlelight vigil held in honour of KK on Sunday, July 21, where the Head of State was represented by Dennis Itumbi, the Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy.
While addressing mourners and fans at the event, Itumbi confirmed that the President had issued the donation, noting that the money would be delivered directly to the late comedian’s family.
“The president has said even if you are saying he must go, he has given a one-million-shilling donation,” Itumbi said, referring to recent protest sentiments.
“I have requested Kafengo to allow me to take the money to the mother at home so that she can plan with it.”
Itumbi also contributed an additional KSh500,000 personally, pushing the total raised during the event to KSh1.5 million—effectively meeting the budget for the burial preparations.
KK Mwenyewe passed away on the evening of Tuesday, July 15, while undergoing treatment at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital. His death was confirmed by fellow comedian Kafengo, who shared the news on Facebook:
“We are heartbroken to announce the sudden demise of Zakaria Kariuki a.k.a Mr KK Mwenyewe. He passed away while undergoing medical attention. During these sad moments, we ask for support and prayers. May his soul rest in peace.”
Mr. KK rose to national prominence with his humorous, low-budget skits—especially those impersonating former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His unique ability to capture Gachagua’s speech patterns and mannerisms made him a viral sensation, endearing him to a broad cross-section of Kenyans.
Despite the satirical tone of his work, many fans and colleagues lauded his humility, intelligence, and deep commitment to storytelling through comedy. He was regarded as one of the most promising voices in Kenya’s digital comedy scene.
KK’s death has sparked widespread mourning across social media, with tributes pouring in from creatives, fans, and political figures alike.
