Comedian and content creator Dr Ofweneke has candidly shared how he resorted to selling samosas to make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking on a recent episode of his YouTube channel, Ofweneke recalled how the pandemic’s sudden onset caught many entertainers off guard, leaving those who relied solely on live events and shows struggling to survive.
“Our job in the entertainment industry relies on people. We thrive on masses,” he said. “Have I ever told you guys, during COVID times, I hawked samosas? At that time, it didn’t matter — samosas were selling.”
For Ofweneke, the situation became dire as he had just welcomed a newborn baby with his wife. With the entertainment industry in limbo, he was forced to find any way to earn a living, even if it meant hawking snacks.
“I had a newborn just a month after COVID was declared. I was married into a very well-off family, and the pressure was intense. They had already told my wife, ‘Wasanii wameisha’ (Entertainers are finished),” he said.
Ofweneke admitted that the financial strain during this period pushed him to the brink. For the first time in his life, auctioneers came knocking at his door after he failed to pay his debts.
“I had nowhere to go, and in my life, I had never seen auctioneers at my door. But during COVID, they came. I squeezed my savings until they ran dry,” he said, reflecting on the harrowing experience.
COVID-19’s Impact on Kenya’s Entertainment Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic hit Kenya in March 2020, with the first cases reported in Nairobi and Mombasa. The government quickly implemented lockdowns and curfews, bringing the entertainment industry to a standstill.
With live events, shows, and public gatherings banned, entertainers were left with no income source. Many had to dip into their savings or find alternative means of survival.
For some, like Ofweneke, this meant taking up side hustles. Others found creative ways to stay relevant, turning to online platforms to reach audiences.
The Rise of Online Content Creation
Despite the hardships, the pandemic also gave rise to a surge in online content creation. As Kenyans adjusted to staying at home, they increasingly turned to digital content for entertainment.
Comedians like Elsa Majimbo, who gained international fame with her witty lockdown skits, and TikTok sensation Azziad Nasenya capitalised on the growing demand for online content.
Flaqo, another comedian, also rose to prominence during this period with his relatable and humorous skits.
by moses sagwe
