This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
On a chilly Saturday night, singer and internet sensation Alvan Gatitu found himself sleeping outside after his landlord locked him out due to unpaid rent arrears.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the economy, Gatitu's story is a stark reminder of the struggles many Kenyans are facing.
According to Gatitu, he had defaulted on rent, water, and electricity bills in recent months due to the effects of the pandemic on his job.
"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). Please note that as this was happening nilikuwa nimekatiwa maji na stima for one and a half weeks. Just trying to make ends meet," Mr Gatitu said in a video clip that soon went viral.
However, what followed was an outpouring of love and support from his fans, who jammed his phone line with calls and M-Pesa messages.
"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 well wishers for coming through for him.
As of July 6, 2020, Gatitu's M-Pesa account was full and could not receive any more money, a testament to the kindness of strangers.
His plight has touched many Kenyans, including local leaders who commented on his predicament.
Machakos County Governor Dr Alfred Mutua said he was shocked after seeing his story.
"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," he said via his official social media handle.
