Social media influencer and businessman Khalif Kairo has sparked significant public backlash after an Instagram post showed him telling a man, who was seeking Ksh 3,750 to help bring his son home from the hospital, to “start being a man.”
The post, captioned “Khalif Kairo Faces Backlash After Telling Man Seeking Ksh 3,750 To Bring Son Home From Hospital To ‘Start Being A Man’” — quickly went viral, prompting a heated debate online over empathy, masculinity, and the responsibilities of influencers in public discourse.
In the clip shared on social media (originally on Instagram), Kairo appears to respond bluntly to the man’s request for financial help with his son’s medical situation.
Public Reaction: A Wave of Criticism
Netizens were quick to voice their disappointment. Some of the most pointed reactions included:
@maureen_dama_00 wrote: “Amesahau chenye alipitia last year, haraka aje” — suggesting that Kairo has forgotten what he himself went through and advising against rushing to judge someone else.
@lynne_sigei commented: “Love the pics used for this story. This guy just doesn’t get it…” expressing disbelief at Kairo’s approach.
@kevin3105miller weighed in with:
“Kama huwezi saidia, unanyamaza ukipita… Ama wewe ile time ya paybil haukuwa a Man… Acha mbwembwe” — meaning that if one cannot help, it’s better to stay silent, and questioning Kairo’s own history of being a “man” when he needed help.
These comments reflect a broader sentiment that public figures have a responsibility to show empathy, especially in situations involving health and family stress.
What This Says About Influence and Responsibility
Khalif Kairo has built a reputation as a flamboyant car dealer and online personality, often mixing entrepreneurial messaging with bold statements that stir conversation.
However, this latest exchange highlights a growing divide between influencer culture and the everyday struggles faced by their followers.
Many critics argue that telling a man in a vulnerable situation to “start being a man” — especially when that man is asking for a relatively small amount — comes across as unsympathetic and detached from the realities of most Kenyans who struggle to afford basic medical-related expenses.
Others, however, defended Kairo’s right to speak bluntly, suggesting that tough love has a place in motivating people.
The debate quickly became emblematic of larger conversations around masculinity in Kenyan society — what it means to be a “man,” and whether public figures should push that narrative without context or compassion.
Kairo’s Brand and Controversial History
While the specifics of this Instagram exchange are circulating mainly through screenshots and reshared posts, they tie into a broader pattern of public scrutiny that Kairo has faced in recent years.
The car dealer and social media personality has been involved in several legal and financial controversies, including disputes over business dealings and court appearances related to allegations of fraud.
These issues have repeatedly fueled online discussion about accountability and the influence of personalities who command large online followings.
BY stephen atila
