Kenya’s veteran comedian, Mama Kayai, has shared a glimpse into her early days on the iconic comedy show Vitimbi.
Speaking on Saturday, March 28, 2026, she revealed that her pay per episode was just KSh20. Despite the modest sum, Mama Kayai says it marked the start of her journey in the entertainment industry.
She explained that the small earnings were manageable because she was still living at home. With fewer personal expenses, the money lasted longer, giving her some financial independence even at a young age.
Mama Kayai also opened up about her family dynamics at the time. Her father was initially unsupportive of her acting career, which added pressure to her early experiences.
Balancing family expectations with her passion for acting required careful handling of her earnings.
The turning point came when Mama Kayai presented her father with the money she earned from acting. That simple act changed his perception and allowed her to continue pursuing her career without restrictions.
In terms of monthly earnings, she noted that she could make around KSh80, and occasionally up to KSh100 if she worked for five weeks straight. While the pay was small, it was consistent enough to sustain her modest lifestyle.
Her early experiences on Vitimbi highlight the challenges many performers face when starting out. Living at home and managing low pay taught her discipline and resilience, laying the foundation for a successful career in comedy and acting.
Mama Kayai’s story remains a reminder of the humble beginnings behind Kenya’s entertainment legends.