Kenyan comedian and actor Sammy Kioko has made headlines after taking his frustrations to the doorstep of the Machakos County Government, where he camped overnight outside Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s office demanding payment for work he claims to have completed two years ago.
The entertainer, best known for his role in the local comedy circuit and his growing influence as a digital content creator, turned to peaceful protest after what he described as “two years of empty promises and unanswered calls.”
Videos shared on social media show Kioko seated outside the Machakos “White House” — the county headquarters — clutching a small bag and visibly dejected. In a post that quickly went viral, the comedian said he had supplied items to the county government for an event two years ago, but despite constant follow-ups, he has yet to receive a single shilling.
“I have been told to come tomorrow for two years now,” Kioko said in a video. “Every time I follow up, I’m told the file is being processed. I have rent to pay, a family to support, and this money is my sweat. I’m not here to cause drama, I just want what is mine.”
The emotional appeal struck a chord with many Kenyans, who flooded social media with messages of support and outrage. Several celebrities, including fellow comedians and influencers, reposted his video, calling on Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s administration to address the issue urgently.
Fans praised Kioko’s courage, calling his protest a rare show of boldness from a public figure against government inefficiency. “It takes guts to do what he did,” one X user wrote. “Most people would just give up. At least he’s speaking for the thousands of young people owed by counties.”
Others noted the irony that a man who has made millions laugh on stage now finds himself pleading for the respect of his own labour. “We forget that entertainers are also entrepreneurs,” a comment read. “Behind the jokes are bills, responsibilities, and real struggles.”
Machakos County, often regarded as a cultural hub and home to a thriving creative scene, has previously partnered with several entertainers for community events and youth programs. Kioko himself has emceed and participated in campaigns promoting youth empowerment and entrepreneurship in the region.
“I have faith that the governor will listen,” he said. “I just want what I worked for. Nothing more, nothing less.”