It may be time for President William Ruto, his deputy Rigathi Gachagua, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to join the whistling trend, as TikTok sensation Ms Priscilla wa Imani wants to collaborate with them. Wa Imani, whose real name is Priscilla Gakuru, has been making unexpected appearances and letting out a loud whistle followed by a shout of her name. She’s done this in various places including supermarkets, petrol stations, and markets, and says she may even do it in a church, mosque, or mortuary – with the exception of a hospital.
Wa Imani believes that having the President, his deputy, and the governor whistle along with her would create a joyful moment that would be captured on social media. She says that whistling is in her soul and comes naturally, adding that many people may think she was once a tout, but that is not the case. She started as a hawker in Laikipia County and has a shop near Laikipia University. She even tried her hand at gospel music, but found it tough and eventually relegated it to a side-hustle.
Wa Imani’s discovery on TikTok was accidental. She was filmed whistling during a dowry ceremony, and the video was uploaded without her knowledge. The audience was impressed by her whistling talent, and her popularity on the app has been growing rapidly. She says that her husband and children are supportive of her whistling and encourages spouses to be supportive of each other’s talents. Her vision is to become an international celebrity and launch a performing arts center for talented individuals at the grassroots level.
