AFRICAN MIRROR REPORTER
AS some folks turn to online learning, binge-watching series or practising meditation to keep themselves busy while being under the COVID-19 lockdown, a lot of people have turned to social media to release their frustrations and entertain themselves as they await the end of lockdown.
One of those is Kenyan comic Elsa Majimbo.
The young viral sensation has bolstered a global fan base over her short, comic videos in English and Swahili, detailing her life under lockdown and the responses from her fans has made Majimbo a fan favourite for quick laughs.
The Kenyan comic’s videos has done so well that she received a sunglasses package from the latest collection of Rihanna’s FENTY luxe brand, and has made several appearances in the media, including making an appearance on CNN’s Full Circle with Anderson Cooper.
Majimbo’s humorous perspective on life during the heath pandemic has been providing social media users with comic relief. She wears her FENTY sunglasses and munches on crunchy snacks while expressing her “contempt” about those who are feeling sad about being home under lockdown or quarantine. This she does through videos on her Instagram profile and Youtube channel for her some 12 000 subscribers.
“Since corona started, we have all been in isolation and I miss no one. Why am I missing you? What is the reason for me to miss you? Do I pay your school fees? Do I pay your rent? Do I provide food for you?”, the 19 year-old said while snacking on crisps.
Majimbo, who is a journalism student, popped up on our social media timeline back in April when one of her videos went viral on Twitter and Instagram across Africa before going global. Since going viral, Majimbo has been approached by South African fast food chain Chicken Licken, and has bagged a deal with global make-up brand MAC.
Her impromptu videos have gained the support and fandom by A-list celebrities such as South Africa’s Cassper Nyovest, USA’s R&B singer SZA as well as Miss Universe Zozi Tunzi.
“I’ve always made videos but I normally put them up on my Instagram. So it was surprising to see them trending on Twitter”, Majimbo said on CNN’s Full Circle. “Most of my videos are made on the spot. I will usually say or do something and think that ‘yes this should be video’ and just record”.
Majimbo is currently recording a new show called “Not so Newsy News”, which is a comedic take on current news and pop culture, with weekly episodes uploaded on Youtube weekly.
