Charles Odongo, popularly known as the Ugali Man, has etched his name into the collective consciousness of Kenyans after achieving viral fame in 2021 by consuming a staggering 5 kilograms of Ugali. This extraordinary feat remains unmatched in Kenya, marking a turning point in his life.
Before the waves of fame swept over him, Ugali Man’s life was marked by adversity and struggles. In an interview with Mungai Eve, he recounted a challenging past, dwelling in a modest Mabati house in Kware, Eastlands. To provide for his family, he toiled on construction sites (Mjengo), facing the uncertainty of daily job opportunities. There were times when he could only manage one meal a day, if that, often going to bed on an empty stomach.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated his difficulties, almost pushing him back to his village. Fortunately, his father offered him a place to stay during these trying times. Faced with a lack of employment opportunities, he decided to venture into a unique endeavor—establishing a local gym with makeshift equipment. Despite the initial absence of financial returns, he pursued it for the sheer enjoyment of the activity.
Ugali Man’s meteoric rise to fame was an unforeseen twist of fate. He mentioned in disbelief that his viral journey began innocently, creating videos for personal amusement without the intention of garnering attention. However, when he shared a video of himself devouring and playfully manipulating Ugali, it resonated across various social media platforms, catapulting him into the limelight. Brands took notice, and his life took a remarkable turn.
One such pivotal moment was when Odibet approached him with an enticing proposition. They offered him a substantial deal to become a brand influencer for their betting site. The deal included a handsome sum of Ksh. 5 million, the establishment of a multimillion gym in Rongai, and the provision of a tour van.
Ugali Man’s life underwent a complete transformation. His days of financial hardship became a distant memory as he embraced a lavish lifestyle, indulging in seven meals a day. His children now attend better schools, and the once uncertain path of his life has smoothed into one of prosperity and success. The influence of Odi Bet played a crucial role in reshaping the trajectory of Ugali Man’s life, proving that unexpected opportunities can emerge from the most unlikely of circumstances.
