Kenyan comedian and philanthropist Eric Omondi turned heads in Nairobi’s bustling Central Business District (CBD) with the launch of what he claims is the city’s giant ugali, a massive mound of the staple food paraded on a lorry while distributing free maize flour to residents.
The event, captured in viral videos, drew crowds despite the rainy weather, highlighting Omondi’s ongoing efforts to address food insecurity amid rising living expenses in Kenya. Omondi, dressed in a brown jacket and cap, arrived on a white lorry branded “Discovery Pride”, with the enormous ugali, resembling a towering white sculpture, securely tied down.
Helpers in red shirts and high-visibility vests assisted as he handed out bags of Kifaru maize flour to eager onlookers. The giant ugali, estimated to weigh several hundred kilograms, symbolised abundance and community spirit, with Omondi shouting encouragements like, “Kula ugali!” as people grabbed the free packets.
The spectacle caused traffic snarls near key landmarks like the National Archives and Moi Avenue, with matatus and pedestrians halting to join the frenzy. Videos show residents with umbrellas scrambling for flour, some climbing onto the lorry for a closer look at the oversized ugali.
Omondi, known for his satirical activism, used the moment to critique government policies on food prices, stating, “While leaders debate, we feed the people.” This isn’t Omondi’s first food-related stunt.
In June 2025, he paraded a “world’s biggest ugali” in Kakamega on a mkokoteni, aiming for Guinness World Records recognition. That event, which went viral on TikTok with over 69,000 likes, involved cooking a massive pot of ugali to feed locals.
The Nairobi launch builds on that, partnering with maize flour brands to provide immediate relief to low-income earners facing inflation-hit unga prices, now averaging Sh150 per 2 kg bale. Social media buzzed with reactions. Netizens praised Omondi’s creativity jokingly, “Eric Omondi for senator incoming.”
Others noted his content’s relevance in tough times. However, some questioned the practicality, pointing to potential waste or safety risks in the crowded CBD. Omondi’s philanthropy extends beyond ugali.
The former Churchill Show star has raised funds for medical bills, built homes for the needy, and protested against corruption. In 2024, he led a campaign against high taxes, often using humour to amplify voices.
Critics argue his stunts are publicity grabs, but supporters see them as genuine aid in a country where 16% of the population faces hunger, per World Food Programme data.
As the lorry moved through streets lined with buildings like Summit House and Nairobi Aviation College, Omondi engaged with fans, posing for selfies and distributing more flour.
The event ended with cheers, but not without minor chaos as crowds surged. Police maintained order, ensuring no incidents. Omondi later posted on TikTok, thanking sponsors and calling for more corporate involvement in community support.
“This giant ugali is for all Kenyans; let’s share the meal,” he said. As food prices soar, such initiatives offer temporary relief while sparking conversations on sustainable solutions.