Former Nairobi County Chief Officer for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has come to the aid of veteran Kenyan actor and scriptwriter Zoa after discovering him living on the streets of Nairobi.
The heartbreaking revelation has sparked concern among Kenyans, with many expressing shock that one of the country’s most recognizable television personalities has been struggling with homelessness despite his immense contribution to Kenya’s entertainment industry.
Zoa, whose real name is widely associated with some of Kenya’s most beloved television productions, became a household name through his role in the iconic KBC drama series Tausi.
Over the years, he also featured in numerous popular local productions, including Vituko, Kisulisuli, Chini ya Mnazi, Popo, Asili na Asilia, Zingatia, and Tushauriane.
Mosiria shared details of his encounter with the veteran actor through a Facebook post, where he appealed to Kenyans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry to support the once-celebrated star.
“Do you remember the famous KBC TV program Tausi? Yesterday, I met the renowned actor and scriptwriter Zoa, who featured in several popular productions, including Tausi, Vituko, Kisulisuli, Chini ya Mnazi, Popo, Asili na Asilia, Zingatia, Tushauriane, and many others. Sadly, he is currently suffering on the streets of Nairobi and has been homeless for many years. He requested me to use my platform to appeal to Kenyans of goodwill to come to his aid and help him rebuild his life,” Mosiria wrote.
“I also appeal to companies in the entertainment industry to consider supporting this veteran actor and writer by offering him an opportunity for employment or engagement in their productions. His experience and talent remain valuable assets to the industry. Zoa further appealed to the Governor of Mombasa and the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Sports, whom he says are his close friends, to assist him during this difficult time. He also requested any television station or media house with available opportunities to consider him for work. Let us not forget the pioneers who entertained and educated us through their talent and dedication. If you are in a position to help, kindly reach out and support him,” he added.
The post quickly attracted reactions from Kenyans who recalled watching Zoa’s performances during the golden era of local television.
Many described him as one of the pioneers who helped shape Kenya’s entertainment landscape long before the rise of modern digital content creation.
His plight has once again highlighted the challenges faced by many veteran actors and artists in Kenya.
Despite helping build the country’s creative industry, several former stars have found themselves battling financial hardships, unemployment, and inadequate social protection after their careers faded from the spotlight.
Over the years, concerns have repeatedly been raised about the welfare of retired entertainers, with industry players calling for stronger support systems, pension schemes, and welfare programs for artists who dedicated decades to nurturing local culture and storytelling.
For many Kenyans, Zoa’s story serves as a painful reminder of how quickly fame can disappear and how some of the country’s cultural icons are often forgotten once they leave television screens.
Following Mosiria’s appeal, Kenyans of goodwill have been urged to support the veteran actor as he seeks to rebuild his life.
There have also been calls on television stations, film producers, county governments, and corporate organizations to tap into his vast experience by offering him employment and mentorship opportunities within the creative sector.
As support continues to pour in, many hope that the intervention by Geoffrey Mosiria will mark the beginning of a new chapter for the veteran actor, whose work entertained and educated generations of Kenyans.
FOLLOW NAIROBI NEWS ON FACEBOOK
