This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the Kenyan economy, a TikTok star's desperate plea for help has highlighted the harsh realities of the crisis.
Alvan Gatitu, a former Tusker Project Fame contestant, found himself facing homelessness after his landlord locked him out of his house due to unpaid rent, water, and electricity bills.
"My landlady and landlord waliamua wako na shida zao na mimi nikaenda zangu so mimi nililala nje (they decided they have their own problems and I have mine so I should sleep outside)," Mr. Gatitu said in a video clip that went viral.
Despite his struggles, Gatitu's fans rallied around him, donating to his M-Pesa account and sending him messages of support.
"I appreciate everyone for the little and much you have done...I don't know what to say. There is a God in heaven," he said in an emotional clip thanking his well-wishers.
His plight has also caught the attention of local leaders, with Machakos County Governor Dr. Alfred Mutua commenting on his predicament.
"A ‘homeless’ Kenyan celeb. This is what I was talking about today. We are so addicted to empty politics and personalities who are rich and comfortable. In the meantime majority are suffering," Dr. Mutua said via his official social media handle.
