Comedian Njugush and his wife Celestine Ndinda pose with their new investment, a matatu they have named Tugi after their first-born son.
For comedian Timothy Kimani alias, Njugush, 2024 has been a year of triumphs and turning points.
Teaming up with other creators, Abel Mutua, Philip Karanja, and Eddie Butita, he delivered the fifth instalment of his stand-up comedy special, Through Thick and Thin (TTNT), on July 27th.
Njugush says the event marked the biggest event of his career with over 6,000 attendees and even more tuning in online.
Beyond the stage, Njugush also ventured into the matatu business, transforming liabilities into assets and laying the groundwork for sustainable investments.
Reflecting on the year, he describes June 25th, when the Gen Z demonstrations sparked a wave of change across Kenya, as a climactic moment for the nation.
Inspired by the younger generation’s courage, Njugush credits them for reigniting the country’s collective voice and power.
As the year wraps up, he looks ahead with gratitude, urging fans to celebrate with their family and community.
1. How has the year 2024 been for you?
This is one of my best years. It has been amazing. The fact that I am healthy, is also a blessing. Of course, we have had some struggles just like any other year. I feel like the year started on June 25 during the Gen Z demonstrations. It meant a lot for our country.
The things that have happened since then will always be in our lives as Kenyans collectively realised their strengths.
Moving forward, it is not business as usual. You can see the changes happening, both in government and other spaces.
Even in churches, things are shifting. It is unfair that we also had to lose lives. I believe justice will eventually come, even if we don’t see it now.
I have also made some investments. I ventured into the matatu industry.
2. You were seen joining the youths in the streets. What do you think about Gen Zs?
Are you calling me an old man now? (Laughs)
But seriously, I think Gen Zs have shown us what is possible. They have found their voice and they now know their power. We have all learnt something from this. It is also very inspiring to see how they have challenged norms and made a real impact.
3. Tell us more about the fifth instalment of your stand-up comedy special, Through Thick and Thin (TTNT) and how has it been financially.
It was the biggest event we have ever done. Over 6,000 people attended, with many more joining online. Seeing such a huge number of Kenyans coming out to support and be entertained was incredible.
It proves that Kenyans are hungry for good, quality content and are ready to support their own.
To other creatives, not just about me; it is a testament to the power of Kenyan talent.
I think as a content creator, if you create quality content, Kenyans will show up.
For the first time, we broke even this year.
In the past, the show would not make a profit or even break even. We have minimised overheads and optimised our modes of distribution, like through our website. While we are still not yet making huge profits, I think we are on the right path.
Comedian Njugush and his wife Celestine Ndinda pose with businessman Eddie Butita with their new investment, a matatu they have named Tugi after their first-born son.
4. That sounds like a big win. What other personal highlights do you have for 2024?
I have also made some investments. I ventured into the matatu industry.
I bought a new minibus after selling my car, Toyota Prado TX and I took a loan to finance it. That is another highlight.
It is an investment that is working for me. You know as we grow, it is essential to diversify and make smart financial decisions.
I want to explore various avenues, including farming. It is about seizing opportunities that others have laid the groundwork for. We should capitalise on our successes to invest wisely as artistes.
5. What Christmas message would you like to give to your fans?
To my fans, thank you for your tireless support throughout the year. I am truly grateful. I wish you all a wonderful holiday season, filled with joy, love, and togetherness. Stay safe, and here is to an even better year ahead. Happy Holidays!
