In a recent video message that he humorously referred to as a “message from God,” Kenyan comedian Eric Omondi took a swipe at gospel artistes in the country. Omondi candidly expressed his concerns and criticisms, highlighting what he perceives as a decline in the gospel industry and its moral standing.
Omondi’s video opened with a nostalgic tone as he reminisced about the heydays of the Groove Awards and the prominence of gospel artists in Kenya. However, he then went on to mention several notable gospel artists and questioned their current whereabouts and activities. Omondi’s pointed remarks included references to Daddy Owen, Jimmy Gait, Mercy Masika, Alice Kamande, Gloria Muliro, Eunice Njeri, and Kambua.
In his candid outburst, Omondi expressed disappointment in the gospel industry’s perceived loss of glory, and he squarely blamed the church for letting down the Kenyan people. He went further by claiming that gospel artistes were involved in more scandals than their secular counterparts, accusing them of abandoning their ministry, God, and the church. He even made a bold declaration that they would never succeed in their new endeavors.
Omondi didn’t spare gospel artist Bahati either. He urged Bahati to return to his initial calling and create music inspired by God, referring to Bahati’s transition from gospel to secular music and his focus on content creation for his YouTube channel.
One of Omondi’s more alarming allegations was directed at Jimmy Gait. He accused Jimmy Gait of operating an agency that sends Kenyan women to work in Gulf countries, where they often face mistreatment. Omondi called for Jimmy Gait’s return to his ministry, suggesting that he had abandoned his calling and was now facing financial difficulties.
In a particularly harsh critique, Omondi linked some gospel singers to what he called “sexual immorality” and attributed the rise of homosexuality in Kenya to them. He pleaded with these artists to return to their initial callings and re-establish their connection with God, painting a picture of Kenya that had lost its moral footing.
Eric Omondi’s video message has stirred controversy and discussions within the Kenyan music industry and the broader society. It has prompted reflection on the role of gospel artists and their impact on society, as well as the relationship between faith, music, and public perception. Omondi’s message serves as a reminder of the power and influence that artists, whether in the gospel or secular sphere, hold over public discourse and the responsibilities that come with it.
