Contrary to prevailing beliefs, the journey of Malik Lemuel, widely recognized as Govi from the acclaimed TV series “Machachari,” was far from being paved with luck. His widespread recognition owes itself to his involvement in the long-running show “Machachari.” But let’s delve into the lesser-known aspects of Govi’s life, including his origins, early struggles, and subsequent achievements.
Govi’s roots trace back to the slums of Mukuru Kwa Njenga, encompassing the Wangige and Imara Daima informal settlements. In a recent interview on Jalang’o’s YouTube channel, he candidly disclosed his upbringing. “I was born in 2000 at Kenyatta Hospital, a public institution. During my formative years, we endured a transient lifestyle. My father would move us from one relative’s home to another, and we traversed Wangige, then Imara Daima, and eventually settled in South B. The road was arduous until my father decided to seek opportunities in the UAE, and the pivotal ‘Machachari’ role materialized,” Govi recounted.
One of the most astonishing revelations was Govi’s experience at the tender age of five, working as a “matatu tout” in South B due to financial hardships at home. “At the age of five, I was a Makanga in South B, and after school, we’d rush to the matatu stages to help fill the vehicles. My cousin was the one guiding me through the ropes,” he reflected.
During this heartfelt interview, the former child star from “Machachari” unveiled the trajectory of his rise to fame, including roles in “Makutano Junction,” “Machachari,” and other cinematic endeavors. He also shared that his very first job was providing a voiceover for Famila Uji when he was a mere two years old. “My family’s fortunes took a turn for the better following my involvement in ‘Machachari,'” he acknowledged. Moreover, Govi clarified that, contrary to earlier speculations, he wasn’t dismissed from the show but had departed earlier.
At the age of 22, Govi is now pursuing higher education in International Relations at a university. In a recent Instagram Q&A session with his followers, he caused a stir by expressing his openness to dating older women. Moreover, he’s ventured into entrepreneurship, launching his real estate company, Dutch House Designers, which specializes in the design and sale of real estate properties. He also co-owns Dilip Tours and Travel, a partnership tour agency.
Yet, Govi hasn’t bid farewell to the world of acting entirely. He’s been featured in “Flash Squad,” an educational teen TV series broadcast on Akili Kids, the first and only dedicated local free-to-air children’s television channel.
