Kenyan actor and media personality, Inspector Mwala, serves as a living testament to the adage ‘do not despise humble beginnings.’ His journey has seen him ascend from earning a modest Ksh.150 per month to achieving household name status, reaping millions in the entertainment industry.
Born Davis Mwabili in Taita Taveta County, Inspector Mwala’s early life unfolded away from the spotlight. Despite not being of Kamba descent, he ventured into the local entertainment scene after completing his education in Taita Taveta.
At the age of 51 in 2022, Davis Mwabili, popularly known as Inspector Mwala, has carved a significant niche for himself in the entertainment world.
Inspector Mwala embarked on his acting career in 1993 during President Moi’s era. His initial appearances were in popular shows such as ‘Vitimbi’ and ‘Vioja Mahakamani,’ which aired on the then-prominent national television network, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). In a reflective interview, Mwala reminisced about earning a humble Ksh.150 per month during that period, although some argue that this was a substantial amount in the ’90s.
In 2000, Davis Mwabili’s career reached new heights when he began airing the hit show ‘Inspector Mwala’ on Citizen TV. In this series, he plays the role of a no-nonsense police inspector stationed at Kona Mbaya police station, working alongside other notable actors like Morio the gardener, Sarah Otieno (lavender), and Sergeant Abdi. Mwala’s portrayal includes a skillful integration of the Kikamba accent, creating an authentic and relatable character.
Beyond his acting endeavors, Mwala extends his influence to radio shows. Financially, Mwala has achieved notable success, reportedly earning approximately Ksh.300,000 per month. This income is derived from various sources, including acting, radio shows, hosting events, and engaging in product marketing. Furthermore, he serves as a brand ambassador for well-known brands like Naivas and Sona MoJa.
In a commendable move uncommon among celebrities, Mwala has strategically planned for his retirement. He owns a multi-million flat, generating an estimated Ksh.250,000 monthly, and resides in a luxurious mansion in Kamulu with his family. Inspector Mwala’s story stands as an inspiring narrative of resilience, hard work, and wise financial planning.
