In recent months, a curious trend has emerged in Kenya’s digital landscape. Individuals thrust into the limelight through scandals or compromising viral videos are no longer facing just social stigma; they are being met with financial windfalls and corporate endorsements.
This shift has prompted a nationwide debate on whether society is moving from a place of genuine sympathy to the active endorsement of indecency.
The Case of Marion Naipei
The most recent example involves 23-year-old Marion Naipei. After a video of her in a compromising state was recorded without her consent and shared online, her life took a devastating turn.
She reported being evicted and disowned, leading to a desperate suicide attempt.
However, the narrative shifted during a recent church service led by Prophet Victor Kanyari. Instead of condemnation, Kanyari gifted the young mother KSh 50,000 in cash.
“It’s not the right time to condemn her, we’re supposed to support her… I’m blessing her with Ksh 50k,” Kanyari said while handing the wads of cash to her.
Kanyari, who famously faced his own “310 scandal” years ago, stated that his past experiences compelled him to stand with the vulnerable rather than judge them.
From Scandal to Brand Ambassador
Naipei’s story mirrors that of Purity Kendi, the “Laare Mama Mboga” from Meru. In late 2025, a private video involving the vegetable vendor was leaked, sparking widespread outrage. While the initial reaction was one of shock, the tide quickly turned.
Instead of fading into obscurity, she was approached by various brands. Reports indicated she received furniture, home makeovers, and even potential brand ambassador roles.
For critics, these rewards create a confusing message: that notoriety is a shortcut to prosperity.
A History of Notorious Fame
Kenya has a long history of “celebrity by accident” or fame born from controversy.
- Githeri Man (2017): Martin Kamotho became a national hero for simply eating githeri in a voting queue, receiving land and a Head of State Commendation.
- The “Manyake” Duo (Circute & Joel): In the early 2000s, they gained massive notoriety for their provocative lyrics, which eventually turned into national fame.
The Blur Between Sympathy and Reward
Sociologist Georg Franck, in his excerpt titled “The Economy of Attention: Mental Capitalism and the Struggle for Attention”, suggests that the “economy of attention” is driving this trend.
In a world where clicks and views equal currency, brands and religious leaders often gravitate toward whoever is trending, regardless of the reason.
Statistics from digital marketing agencies show that scandalous content often achieves 400% more engagement than educational or traditional decent content.
This high engagement is what attracts corporate interest, as brands look to tap into massive, ready-made audiences.
The question remains: is the Kenyan public supporting the person or the act? While figures like Kanyari argue they are simply “rescuing” a soul in distress, others worry that the “viral reward” loop is teaching a new generation that being “decent” is less profitable than being “trending.”
BY moses sagwe
