TY NGACHIRA ON WRITING JOKES FOR KIKUYU COMEDIANS

Celebrated comedian TY Ngachira has opened up about his behind-the-scenes role as a joke writer for fellow comedians, particularly in the growing Kikuyu comedy scene. 

Speaking on the Buzz Central Podcastwith Cheptoek Boyo, Ngachira shared insights into this niche but growing market. When asked if he writes jokes for other comedians, Ngachira explained, “I do write jokes for other comedians, but it depends. If they’ve written a joke already and just want me to help sharpen it, I don’t charge for that. But if you have a show and want me to write original material, I will charge depending on how long the material is.“

Ngachira revealed an unexpected career shift, “I started writing Kikuyu jokes for people, and now I have Kikuyu comedians approaching me to help craft their material. I’ve realised there’s big potential here. Our local languages are languages of the heart.“

He also added, “My mom doesn’t come to my English shows. She says, ‘If you start doing jokes in Kikuyu and Kiswahili, call me.’ Ironically, she might be a fan of the very comedians I’m writing for.”

The comedian said content in local language cis more appealing to Kenyans, “This is why vernacular stations aren’t closing down, they cater to the rest of the country, not just Nairobi.“