Kenyan comedian and radio presenter Shugaboy has finally addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his entry into the media industry.
Born Ali Salim Mwayogwe, the entertainer spoke openly during a recent interview with podcaster and journalist Clemmo254. He detailed his journey from the coast to the capital and the supernatural claims that have followed his success.
Addressing the Witchcraft Claims
During the interview, Clemmo254 raised the topic of “witchcraft,” a rumour that has trailed Shugaboy since he joined Radio Maisha. Some critics and peers have claimed he used traditional rituals to secure his position over other famous comedians.
He addressed the specific claim that he was buried halfway in a ritual to get the job.
According to Shugaboy, the claim originated from fellow comedian Dj Shiti, who jokingly said so after little-known Shugaboy trounced big names during the interview to clinch the radio job.
“Dj Shiti usually says that after we were called for the radio Maisha job interview, I travelled home and did some witchcraft of being buried halfway, and that’s how I was picked for the job,” he recalled.
Shugaboy clarified that these stories likely stem from his Digo cultural background in Kwale. He, however, admitted to having used some “traditional protection” that, according to him, doesn’t amount to real witchcraft.
“I have never used witchcraft specifically for a job. However, I won’t deny having ‘African protection’ (kinga) from home. It is part of our culture.”
He explained that while he undergoes traditional family rituals for protection, he believes his success on the radio is due to his talent and hard work. He was selected for the role after a one-week on-air trial, where he impressed his bosses enough for them to bypass the usual protocols.
The Kwale Connection
Shugaboy hails from Golini in Kwale County. He was a bright student, scoring 382 out of 500 marks in his primary school exams.
He later attended Shimo La Tewa High School, where he earned a Grade B in his final secondary exams.
Despite his academic success in Information Technology, Shugaboy’s true passion was always the arts.
He began his career in community theatre, using performance to educate the public on health issues like HIV and malaria. Eventually, a scholarship to the Churchill Academy brought him to Nairobi at the age of 22.
Hard Times in Kibera
The transition to city life was not easy. Shugaboy lived in Kibera with family friends while pursuing his dreams.
He spent eight months auditioning for the Churchill Show before finally getting his big break.
“I didn’t want to go back home to live with my parents. I wanted to fight until I made it here in Nairobi.”
His persistence paid off when he became a regular on the comedy show. This platform eventually caught the attention of the Head of Radio at Radio Maisha, leading to a career-defining audition.
A Decade of Success
Shugaboy has now been in the radio industry for nine years. He reflects on his career as a dream come true, having moved from the struggles of Kibera to a life where he can support himself and build a home.
The presenter, who now considers himself among the top radio personalities in Kenya, advised aspiring journalists to focus on passion rather than wealth.
