Former Real Househelps of Kawangware actor Onyi has appealed to musician-turned-politician Charles Kanyi Njagua, popularly known as Jaguar, for help securing employment as he struggles to provide for his children.
Onyi’s appeal comes days after Jaguar visited ailing singer Marya and donated Sh100,000 towards her immediate needs, pledging further support for her rent, physiotherapy and caregiving expenses.
In his public message, Onyi expressed appreciation for Jaguar’s assistance to Marya before appealing for an opportunity to rebuild his livelihood, saying he has children who depend on him financially.
Jaguar visited Marya on October 15 as she continues recovering from an ischaemic stroke that affected the left side of her body. He also committed to supporting her rent, physiotherapy and caregiving expenses.
Marya, remembered for her hit Chokoza featuring Avril, has faced a difficult period as she navigates recovery and the costs of ongoing care. Her appearance alongside Colonel Mustapha at his music milestone celebration reportedly moved Jaguar to check on her again.
Onyi’s appeal, meanwhile, highlights the difference between one-off financial assistance and the opportunity to earn a sustainable income.
Their circumstances point to a difficult reality in Kenya’s entertainment industry, where public recognition does not always translate into financial security. Illness, irregular gigs, limited long-term earnings and a lack of dependable safety nets can leave entertainers vulnerable when work dries up.
Jaguar has previously spoken about the financial struggles of artistes, arguing that music should be treated as a business and earnings invested wisely.
For Marya, the immediate priority is recovery and access to continued care. For Onyi, it is finding reliable employment to support his family. Their circumstances also raise broader questions about the support systems available to entertainers when illness or financial hardship threatens their livelihoods.