This archive report was first published on 10 June 2020.
Kenyan Celebrities Who Sold Chang'aa to Survive ¶
Despite the challenges they faced, several Kenyan celebrities have risen to fame and success. One common thread among them is their humble beginnings, including selling chang'aa to make ends meet.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and celebrated comedian Captain Otoyo are among the celebrities who have spoken out about their experiences.
1. Babu Owino ¶
Babu Owino's father passed away when he was in class three, forcing his mother to sell chang'aa in Nyalenda slums in Kisumu county.
He has spoken about the difficulties he faced, including being arrested for selling chang'aa.
"I was arrested selling chang'aa, a day to my KCSE biological practicals. I was taken to Kisumu Central Police Station where I could not afford Ksh500 to pay for my release as a tot for chang'aa was Sh10."
Despite the challenges, Babu Owino is passionate about education and has advised parents to invest in it.
"I knew very well that it's only education that could get me from the shackles of poverty and I decided to concentrate on it. It worked. Let us invest in education, fellow parents, brothers, and sisters."
2. Captain Otoyo ¶
Comedian Captain Otoyo has spoken about his humble upbringing, including selling chang'aa to help his mother.
"My mother used to sell illicit brews, and I mean all of them, whatever was in the market, she made it and sold it. As the children, we helped out, with the main role being acting as sentries (lookouts). We used to position ourselves strategically and alert the customers of any incoming law enforcers."
He has also spoken about the lessons he learned from his experiences, including the importance of hard work and goodwill.
"I had never worn shoes my entire life, not even underwear up to this point. I am a product of hard work, goodwill and my village."
3. Otile Brown ¶
Kenyan singer Otile Brown lost his mother when he was 12 years old and was forced to sell chang'aa to make ends meet.
"My mom died when I was about to turn 13. I started selling chang'aa. I don't like talking about it but I don't shy away from speaking about it because I know it could motivate someone."
He has spoken about the lessons he learned from his experiences, including the importance of perseverance and hard work.
"Were it not for this talent of making music, I would still be brewing and selling chang'aa in Mombasa. It's heart-breaking what poverty can drive people to. It's not a part of my life that I'm particularly proud of but the lessons I learnt there are priceless."
