Kenyans were moved on Sunday, September 28, when a wave of TikTok creators visited Othaya’s Chinga village to rally behind one of their own, Kaluma Boy, who has been struggling to care for his ailing father. Kenyans turned out in large numbers to support Kaluma Boy. Photo: Kaluma Boy, MC Chris Kirubi. Source: Facebook Kaluma Boy, a TikToker known for sharing glimpses of his life in the village, has been documenting the daily care of his father. Who is Kaluma Boy? His father has been ailing since suffering a stroke last year in August. His honest portrayal of the challenges of caregiving, including the costs of medication and therapies, has earned him a devoted following.
His posts also often feature a signature emotional song by Busy Signal that speaks of a brighter future. After the TikToker publicly shared difficulties, Kenyans were soon touched and a paybill was quickly set up, prompting donations from fans and fellow TikTokers. On the day of the visit, hundreds of TikTokers, alongside celebrities and even church leaders, arrived at his home bearing gifts and support. Videos seen by TUKO.co.ke captured thousands of people who arrived in luxury cars, matatus, boda bodas, and even on foot, all heading to Kaluma’s homestead. In another video, TikToker MC Chris Kirubi was seen interacting with Kaluma’s dad during the event, even engaging in a conversation with him as he sat in a wheelchair. Why did Kenyans want to support Kaluma Boy? In a recent TikTok video posted on his page, Kaluma recounted the toll his father’s illness had taken. “My father has been sick for one year now. He fell ill at the start of last August, went into a coma for three years, and left the hospital in December. I can say he is improving, but it still feels like he is in a hospital ward at home.”
Dennis Kasyoki: Family, friends to hold candle lighting ceremony for deceased businessman Machakos: Grieving father found sitting on late child’s grave 3 days after he went missing Beyond emotional strain, the TikToker also described the financial burden, noting that certain treatments are expensive, alongside expenses for changing his father’s catheter and other treatments. Those who visited him arrived bearing goodies, cash gifts, and even, in some cases, like MoFarm from Bishop Muthee Kiengei’s church, a special bed to aid Kaluma’s father’s recovery. During the event, Kaluma’s mother thanked everyone for their support and presence. “Nimeona Mungu amejileta kwangu, amekuja bila kutumana (I have witnessed God today). I thank God, I thank you all, and even my kids. May God bless you all,” she said, breaking down in tears. The paybill is still active, and anyone willing to contribute can use business number 400200 and account number 1095615 under the name Vincent Beatrice.
By DanVictor Munene
