Veteran Kenyan actress Mary Khavere, popularly known as Mama Kayai, has opened up about the harsh financial realities actors faced during the early days of local television.
In a recent revelation, the celebrated actress disclosed that she earned just KSh 20 per episode for her role in the iconic Kenyan TV show Vitimbi.
Mama Kayai, who became a household name through her comedic performances, shared that despite the show’s massive popularity, actors received very minimal compensation at the time. According to her, the industry was still in its infancy, and structured payment systems or proper valuation of talent had not yet been established.
The actress explained that passion, rather than financial reward, was the driving force behind many performers during that era. For many, appearing on television was more about exposure and love for the craft than earning a sustainable income.
Her revelation has sparked conversations online, with many Kenyans expressing shock at how little early television pioneers were paid, especially considering the cultural impact shows like Vitimbi had on the country.
Vitimbi, which aired on Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), remains one of Kenya’s most iconic comedy programs, credited with shaping the local entertainment industry and launching the careers of several legendary actors.
Mama Kayai’s story highlights the evolution of Kenya’s film and television industry—from an underfunded creative space to a growing sector where actors are now pushing for better pay, recognition, and professional standards.
As the industry continues to expand, her experience serves as both a reminder of how far Kenyan entertainment has come—and how much more progress is still needed to properly reward talent.
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