NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has extended financial support to Musa Kihara, the young boy whose viral video captured national attention for his articulate directions to his home in “Kwa Mbae.”
Musa visited Sonko’s office alongside his mother and a group of digital content creators who have been amplifying the family’s situation online. During the meeting, Sonko donated Sh 100,000 to support the family’s immediate needs.
“To support their journey, I was honored to contribute Sh 100,000 to ‘Kwa Mbae’ (Musa Kihara) and his family,” Sonko said, also acknowledging the role of content creator Obidan Dela and his team.
The family is currently facing a medical crisis, as Musa’s nine-year-old brother, Lewis Baraka, undergoes treatment for throat cancer at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital. According to the family, the child recently underwent a major surgical procedure.
Sonko also contributed Sh 40,000 to the content creators, citing their role in bringing attention to the family’s plight.
The support comes days after Victor Kanyari, founder of Salvation Healing Ministry, also donated Sh 40,000 to the family during a church service. Kanyari has since mobilised further support, calling on Kenyans to visit the family’s home on April 26.
Musa’s story first gained traction after a boda boda rider shared a video of the boy giving detailed directions to his home in Tharaka Nithi County. His repeated use of the phrase “umeelewa” quickly became a viral catchphrase, drawing widespread attention online.
However, the narrative soon shifted from amusement to concern as well-wishers uncovered the family’s difficult living conditions and the child’s medical challenges.
The growing wave of public support highlights the increasing role of social media in driving civic response and informal welfare mobilisation in Kenya, particularly in cases where families face urgent health and economic hardships.
As Lewis continues his treatment, the family’s story has evolved into a broader call for solidarity, with individuals and organisations stepping in to bridge gaps in healthcare support and social protection.
