A popular testis vendor, Kiomboyo wa Nyee, in Kenya ended up heartbroken after his much-hyped “Makende Festival” in Mwea drew just seven attendees. The man, known online for selling boiled bull testicles, or ‘makende’, as they are called in Sheng, had high hopes for the event. He thought his social media fame would bring huge crowds.
The festival took place on December 19, 2025, in Mwea, Kirinyaga County. He planned it to raise money. Part of the cash was to pay off a car loan. He also wanted funds to open a new butchery dedicated to makende sales. Makende is a common delicacy in many parts of Kenya, especially among men who believe it boosts strength.
He prepared big. Reports say he stocked over 23,500 pieces of makende. He rented a hall and decorated it nicely. A DJ was hired to play music. Ushers were on hand to help guests. Everything was set for a busy day with sales pouring in.
But when the day came, almost no one showed up. Only seven people turned out. Videos circulating online show the vendor looking devastated. He has been crying and even fainting from the shock, according to posts on social media. Friends and family say he has not stopped grieving for days.
In the end, he had no choice but to dispose of the stock. The unsold makende, more than 20,000 pieces, had to be buried because they would spoil. That added to his losses. He is now deeper in debt from the hall rental, DJ fees, decorations, and the wasted product.
The vendor gained fame recently through funny videos about his business. People shared them widely on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. He goes by names like Kiomboyo wa Nyee in some posts. Many Kenyans found his content entertaining. He probably expected fans to come support him in person.
Events like this can be risky. Social media likes do not always turn into real attendance. Promotion was mostly online, and Mwea is a smaller town. Word might not have spread enough locally. Some say bad weather or competing events kept people away.
Kenyans have reacted in different ways online. Some feel sorry for him and wish him better luck next time. Others joke about it, saying online fame is not the same as real support. A few have offered advice on better planning for future events.
This story highlights the ups and downs of small businesses relying on viral moments. The vendor put everything into the festival. Now he has to recover from the setback. Many hope he bounces back soon. Makende’s sales continue in markets across Kenya, and his regular customers might stick with him.
For now, the flop serves as a cautionary tale. Big expectations need solid groundwork. The buried stock is a sad end to what was meant to be a celebration. People in Mwea and beyond are talking about it as the year closes.
They mix humour with real struggles. The vendor’s experience shows how quickly things can change for those chasing dreams through social media.
