NAIROBI, Kenya — Comedian and philanthropist Eric Omondi has raised Sh8.8 million in just two days to support Bryson Makokha, a boy from Bungoma County battling a rare skin disease.
The funds were raised through a Paybill account established to mobilise public contributions towards Bryson’s medical care and improve the living conditions of his family.
Announcing the fundraising milestone, Omondi said the contributions had reached Sh8.8 million, thanking Kenyans who had responded to the appeal.
“Team Sisi Kwa Sisi. We are at Sh8.8 million,” Omondi said.
The comedian said the money would support several interventions, including improving the family’s housing, securing Bryson’s education and providing assistance to his mother and siblings.
Bryson’s plight first attracted public attention after content creator Minister Zydo encountered him selling bananas on the streets and shared his situation online.
Omondi subsequently met the boy and took up his case after learning about the difficulties he had experienced because of his skin condition.
Bryson is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Nairobi.
“And the journey begins. Our Boy will be as Clean as Snow. Thank you team sisi kwa sisi. You have lent God and He will repay,” Omondi said.
Bryson reveals how skin condition affected his livelihood
In an interview, Bryson revealed that he had previously sought medical treatment, but the condition kept recurring whenever he ran out of a prescribed ointment.
He also explained how the disease affected his ability to earn a living through street vending.
According to Bryson, some customers avoided buying his bananas because of the appearance of his skin, making it difficult for him to support himself.
His circumstances prompted calls for assistance, with the fundraising campaign attracting contributions from members of the public.
Eric Omondi outlines plans for Bryson’s family
Beyond the immediate medical intervention, Omondi has outlined a wider support plan aimed at giving Bryson and his family greater stability.
The proposals include constructing a three-bedroom house for the family and a separate two-bedroom house for Bryson.
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Omondi also plans to take Bryson’s mother to hospital for medical examinations and a surgical procedure she needs.
In addition, Sh2 million will be set aside in an education trust fund for Bryson and his siblings to support their schooling.
The comedian further intends to establish a sustainable business for the family to provide a long-term source of income.
Omondi said construction of a two-bedroom house for Bryson’s mother had already begun as the planned interventions moved towards implementation.
The fundraising campaign has therefore extended beyond raising money for medical treatment, with the proposed support targeting the family’s housing, education and economic needs.
