Media personality Willis Raburu has revealed a frustrating ordeal many Kenyans in creative fields face: delayed payments from big corporations.
Raburu, a former TV journalist and radio host, says he has been chasing a corporate client for nearly a year without receiving the money owed. Despite multiple follow-ups, the payment has not come through.
He shared his frustration online, asking his followers, “Mtu hufanya aje kama big corporate imekutumia, and almost a year later, despite several follow-ups, hawajakulipa ni kukupeleka roundi?”
Raburu also ran a poll for his fans, asking whether he should expose the company or avoid conflict with a powerful entity. Many creatives, freelancers, and influencers resonated with his experience, as delayed payments are a common problem in Kenya’s media and entertainment industry.
Waiting months or even years for money causes financial strain and can discourage professionals from trusting corporate partnerships. For those who rely on such projects for their livelihood, the delays can be devastating.
Raburu’s post has sparked conversations about the need for corporations to respect contracts and pay their service providers on time. Some followers advised him to expose the company publicly, while others urged caution to avoid professional repercussions.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by creative professionals in Kenya. While corporates benefit from their talent, fair and timely compensation remains a persistent issue. Raburu’s outcry serves as both a personal plea and a wider reminder that structural reforms are needed in how businesses handle creative partnerships.
By Nairobi