Kenyan comedian Sammy Kioko has announced the closure of his shops and production areas, citing deep financial challenges that have crippled his business operations.
Through an emotional statement shared on his Instagram stories, the entertainer revealed that despite his best efforts, sustaining the ventures had become impossible.
“The worst that I was fearing is happening..!! It’s with a heavy heart that we’re announcing the closure of our shops and production areas. Despite our best efforts, we’ve faced significant challenges that have made it impossible for us to continue operating. We want to express our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, supporters, and team members who’ve been part of this journey. Your encouragement has meant the world to us. Not a goodbye, but a see you later. We won’t get tired of knocking the county offices God above everything.” Kioko wrote.
Struggles with Unpaid County Project
The announcement comes just days after Sammy Kioko made headlines for camping outside the Machakos Governor’s office, pleading to be paid for a project he had undertaken for the county.
The project, which he said was completed months ago, remains unpaid — a situation that has allegedly left him financially strained.
In a series of Instagram posts, Kioko voiced his frustrations, writing:
“There’s need to be paid. Anyone from Machakos County kindly help. Things are not okay. I have suffered enough.”
Sources close to the entertainer indicated that Kioko had supplied services under a county contract but was yet to receive payment.
His public plea drew widespread attention online, with fellow entertainers urging county authorities to settle their obligations.
Financial Strain and Emotional Toll
The delay in payment appears to have worsened Kioko’s financial situation, forcing him to make the difficult decision to shut down his business operations.
The comedian, known for his creative skits and stage performances, had invested heavily in his shops and production areas, which were part of his effort to expand beyond comedy and into entrepreneurship.
Industry insiders note that his situation reflects a growing challenge faced by many young Kenyan creatives who venture into business without steady financial backing.
The combination of delayed payments, high operating costs, and an unstable economy has seen many small businesses collapse despite showing early promise.
Hope for a Comeback
Despite the setback, Kioko remains optimistic. His message to fans, “Not a goodbye, but a see you later,” suggests that he plans to regroup and possibly return to business once his financial situation stabilizes.
Supporters have continued to rally behind him, encouraging the comedian to stay resilient and reminding him of his talent and contribution to Kenya’s entertainment industry.
By Judy mutinda
