Viral sensation Kennedy Kabugi talks about mastering the art of relatable Kenyan satire

Contributor

What was your family dynamic like? Were you the funny one at home?

Yes. I'm the oldest cousin on my dad’s side, so basically the firstborn. I grew up in Nakuru. I was sort of a cheeky kid, always playful and a bit of a mastermind. I think people used to laugh at everything I said. I don’t know if it’s because I was the only kid then, but I always lightened up serious moods. I had a sneaky ability to get everyone laughing—even when they didn’t plan to.

Where did you want to be as a child? Was comedy part of the dream?

I actually wanted to become an accountant. At some point, a neurosurgeon too—I don’t know where that dream went. But deep down, I admired the Machachari kids and others in local shows like Beba Beba. I always wanted to be on TV and see people giggle at my jokes.

When and how did you discover your talent for making people laugh?

This started way back in Sunday school. We’d do Bible plays and skits and present them to the church. Even with small roles, me being cheeky and tiny made people laugh. The whole church would burst out.

What was your very first skit or comic act, and do you remember the feedback?

Yes. My first skit was on YouTube—it was about me buying soda and my friends each asking for a sip. By the time they were done, I was left with an empty bottle. Back then, I’d share the video link with a few people, and I remember getting 7, 10, even 20 comments full of laugh and fire emojis. I felt so nice.

Was there a moment you decided to go all in on content creation?

Yes, in 2019, when I joined JKUAT. That’s when I fully committed to content creation and decided it’s something I’d love to do for the rest of my life—whether it's creating, supporting other creators, or just making people smile.

When did you first trend online, and what was that like?

The first time was in 2021. I did a parody of the wash wash Chemical video. That one got over 50,000 views and some celebrity shout-outs. It wasn’t a national trend, but it went viral in a good way.

And the second time?

That was on June 1st, 2022. I did the Shambatang speech with Sherry Gabriela. That one really blew up—more than the first. It opened a lot of doors.

Did you expect to go that viral?

Yes, I did. I’ve always worked towards making more people smile and I was consistent with my craft. I actually don’t feel like I’ve gone viral enough. I want to reach East Africa, Africa—and beyond.

What role did the viral Uhuru Kenyatta parody play in your rise?

That was the Shambatang video. It was my second major trend and it opened me up to more opportunities and followers. It really opened doors.

How would you describe your comedy style and what makes it uniquely Kabugi?

It’s relatable Kenyan satire, often with a political twist. I blend reality with absurdity but keep it straightwise. That’s the best way I can put it.

Who are your biggest inspirations in comedy—locally and globally?

Anyone doing comedy inspires me. But to name a few: I really love Crazy Kennar—he’s tapped into a market I’d love to reach. Vinny Baite is great with storytelling. Others include Comedian Widdy, the Austin guy, and of course, Sherry Gabriela. Internationally, I admire Anwar, Adam W, IShowSpeed’s hype, and in stand-up, Kevin Hart and Trevor Noah.

You’ve worked a lot with Sherry Gabriela. How did that partnership come about?

It started from a simple DM on Instagram. We decided to work together—and the chemistry just clicked. The energy was right.

People always ask: Are you and Sherry dating? What’s the real story?

No, we’re just friends—content creation friends with great acting chemistry. That’s all there is to it.

How do you handle scandals?

I haven’t had any major scandals. Maybe I’ve been mentioned here and there, especially with TikTok’s rise. But I stick to my truth, ignore the noise, and keep creating.

How do you separate public Kabugi from private Kennedy?

I blend both. Kennedy is a bit more serious, silent, business-oriented and grounded in Kikuyu culture. But even Kabugi—content creation—is business. I just make sure whatever I don’t want public stays private.

You recently hosted a successful event. Tell us more about it.

Smiles Caravan was a dream turned reality. We sold out 850 tickets—live skits, endless laughter, pure joy. I honestly don’t have the words to fully describe it, but we hit the goal: to make everyone smile. That’s always the mission.

Have you landed any brand endorsements or partnerships? Which one stands out?

I’m currently working with Cooperative Bank—it’s been the longest and I genuinely enjoy the partnership. I’ve also worked with brands I admire like Meta, Google, and Safaricom. I always wanted to work with Safaricom, and that came true. Currently, I’m also working with BetLion—another great experience.

Let’s talk money—how exactly do you earn through comedy?

It’s a mix. There are brand deals, social media monetisation (like TikTok gifts during live shows, although I’m not really a TikTok person), YouTube and Facebook, which now pay creators directly, and of course, live events like Smiles Caravan.

Is content creation sustainable in Kenya, especially for upcoming creators?

Yes, it is—but it demands consistency, discipline, and strategy. It’s tough starting out, but if you have a vision and you're serious about it, it will work out eventually.

Do you have a team behind you?

Yes. A big shout-out to Victor Machio—he’s my videographer, manager, almost everything. I also work with extended managers like Jeff Alex and others who help link me up with gigs. For bigger productions, I roll with a team of about five people.

Any major career mistakes that taught you something?

Nothing drastic, but I’ve rushed into some partnerships before. That taught me to value contracts, boundaries, and to know your worth—including pricing.

How do you handle creative blocks or the pressure to always be funny?

Rarely happens because my content is based on everyday life. But when it does, I just step away, observe life, and the ideas return naturally.

When you’re not creating or performing, what are you up to?

I’m into business—several, though I’m not ready to share all the details yet. I’m also involved in the content creation business, not just for myself but mentoring others. Plus, I’m growing Smiles Caravan into a full event brand.

Are you still in university? How did you balance school and fame?

I graduated in 2024. Balancing both wasn’t that hard. I even created content around campus life, so I was doing what I loved.

What’s something fans would be surprised to learn about you?

I’m not as extroverted as I seem online. I’m actually quite chill and a bit serious in person. I think some fans already suspect that.

What’s the big picture for Kabugi—five or ten years from now?

I want to expand Smiles Caravan to cities across Kenya—selling smiles and joy. I also want to grow my comedy globally and create timeless content. I’m working on a series—won’t reveal much—but yeah, it’s something I believe will be a game-changer.

Any plans to go international or venture into acting, podcasting, or more business?

I’m already in the content creation business. I’ve tried podcasting—took a short break—but I’ll be back. I’d love to use my voice more. As for going international, yes—there’s a sitcom comedy series I’m working on. It’ll be one of a kind in Kenya.