Mathias Keya is his official name, and consistency is simply his forte.Makokha who stars in local comedy show Vioja Mahamkamani describes himself as an entertainer, a man who perfectly lives two completely separate lives.
People know me as the funny guy on their screens. I am a family man, a father in the house.” Said Makokha the father of four in an interview.
Apart from these funny men, other notable characters who played more ‘serious’ roles were Gibson Kamau (Prosecutor), Mama G aka Judge (Lucy Wangui).
His story is that of resilience and self-belief devoid in most of us. According to the popular comedian, he first came to Nairobi in the 80s. Alfonse, in an interview in one of the leading dailies, recounted how he had to adjust to city life.
From being taught in mother tongue, the young impressionable Mathias had to learn English and Swahili to understand the ‘city’ teachers.
The actor lived in Maringo estate in Eastlands. He told Radio Jambo of his acting exploits early in life:
“I started acting as a young kid, I can vividly remember it all started when I was in class 3 , at Dr. Kraft primary school where I participated in music and drama festivals, a hobby-turned talent which I took along throughout primary school.”
Makokha, recently spoke about his late wife, Purity Wambui, who passed away on after a long battle with cancer.
During an interview with Tuko.co.ke, the actor emotionally shared the impact that her death had on his kids.
“It has hit and affected them. They are in disbelief. The youngest, who is 11 years asks where mum is. I have to lie and say she is in Heaven. She has gone to be with the Lord. I have to counsel the little one. It is painful, sad and hard,” a heartbroken Makokha said.
He also explained that the late Wambui had died while he was on his way to work and that the death would be something that would haunt him forever.
“Nilikuwa naenda job. I told my daughter, please take care of your mum. I was going to look for my daily bread. Kabla tufike katikati ya safari,” the distraught Alphonse said.
