It is without a doubt that Kikuyu comedy has evolved with time to become one of the most vibrant sub-sectors of Kikuyu entertainment industry.
Courtesy of Kikuyu comedy, many rib-crackers can now place a meal on the table and go about other things in life that require income.
But even as we celebrate the growth of Kikuyu comedy, it is only good to turn our eyes back and remind ourselves where this industry has come from as we forge ahead to the future where the prospects are high and promising.
The most interesting thing about this subject, however, is that as we shall see below, Kikuyu comedy has undergone three major stages to be where it is today, just like an insect undergoes a three-stage metamorphosis before maturity.
That is to mean Gikuyu comedy has also come of age and therefore, ready for a big and monumental take off. Let's focus on the three stages in details.
1. Stage one
This dates back to between 2000 and 2004. This coincides with the entry of 24-hour Kikuyu radio stations on the airwaves. The stations which have played a major role in the growth of this industry include Kameme FM (2000), Coro FM (2001), Inooro FM (2003).
The three stations were the first ones to feature Kikuyu pioneer comedians in their shows. For instance, Kameme FM had the Githingithia-Njaramba duo, Coro FM had Ole Matope while Inooro FM launched with Cucu Nyakairu on board.
These pioneer radio comedians and others laid the foundation upon which the next batch of Kikuyu comedians would use as a launching pad for their comedy careers.
2. Stage two
It dates back to between 2005 and 2013. During this stage, Gikuyu comedy witnessed an unprecedented growth and popularity.
This was brought about by the demand for comedians, especially on Gikuyu radio stations. Many of these stations started to incorporate comedians in their prime time shows, something that boosted their listenership and ratings greatly.
Many of these comedians before joining radio had, however, made big names for themselves through the production of short audiovisual comedies which they would then sell packed in DVDs on the streets, public service vehicles or house-to-house.
Some of the big names in Kikuyu comedy that came during this period include Mzee Kihenjo, Man Solo Papa, Kiere, Kianangi, Wandahuhu, Karuruma among many others.
3. Stage three
This is the stage where Gikuyu comedy is today. It dates back to 2014. This is the year when Kenya also witnessed a major shift in television broadcasting by migrating from analogue to digital TV broadcast.
The migration came with several Kikuyu TV stations which also have their own brand of comedy shows. For the first time, Gikuyu comedy now has stand-up rib-crackers like Mzee Kiengei, Karwimbo to mention but a few.
As more Gikuyu TV stations continue to sprout by day, we can only expect this new brand of Kikuyu comedy to continue expanding as more comedians join the fray.
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