Tanzanian comedian Kipotoshi, a rising star in the stand-up comedy industry, stirred up intrigue with a cryptic post naming three comedians, Shafii_brand, Mc Mboneke, and Mrblack_og, for whom wearing shoes is “toxic”.
The Kyela-born comic, known for his sharp wit and vibrant performances at events like the Tanzania Comedy Festival, shared the quirky list without elaborating on its meaning, leaving fans and fellow comedians speculating about the jab.
Kipotoshi’s post, which mentioned “instructions of their experts”, has ignited debates across Dar es Salaam’s comedy circles, with some calling it a playful roast and others sensing a deeper critique. Kipotoshi, whose real name remains under wraps, has carved a niche in Tanzania’s growing comedy scene since his 2022 YouTube debut, blending Swahili slang and rural humour.
His post, shared from his Instagram handle, read: “Three comedians for whom wearing shoes is toxic: Shafii_brand, Mc Mboneke, and Mrblack_og. I hear the instructions of their experts.”
The ambiguous phrase “toxic shoes” puzzled followers, with some jokingly saying, “Is Kipotoshi saying their style stinks?” Others speculated it could be a metaphor for the trio’s stage personas or a dig at their reliance on branding over raw talent.
Shafii_brand, a Dar es Salaam-based comic, is known for his flashy outfits and social media skits, often collaborating with influencers to promote local fashion. Mc Mboneke, a veteran MC and standup act from Morogoro, brings high-energy performances to festivals like Sinema Zetu, while Mrblack_og, a newer face, mixes hip-hop and comedy, gaining traction on TikTok.
None of the three have responded directly, though Shafii_brand posted a cryptic sneaker emoji on Instagram, fuelling further speculation. Fans suggested Kipotoshi might be shading their “overpolished” personas, contrasting his own barefoot, relatable stage style.
Tanzania’s comedy scene, centred in Dar es Salaam, has exploded since the late 2010s, driven by platforms like AzamTV and YouTube. Kipotoshi’s rise mirrors that of peers like Mzee Mshamba, with his Kyela roots adding authenticity to his storytelling.
The “toxic shoes” comment could reflect tensions in the industry, where some comedians prioritise brand deals over craft, a point Kipotoshi has subtly raised in past interviews. At the 2025 Tanzania Comedy Awards, he won Best Newcomer, cementing his influence.
The post has sparked light-hearted memes, with fans creating “shoe-free” edits of the named comedians. However, some worry it could escalate into a feud, given the competitive nature of Tanzania’s entertainment industry.