Rigathi Gachagua's 'Wantam' graffiti moment at Facebook wall during US tour excites Kenyans

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's 2025 U.S. trip has gone viral-not for a speech or policy announcement, but for a cheeky piece of chalk graffiti at Meta's Silicon Valley headquarters. In a trending video on X (formerly Twitter), Gachagua was recorded at a giant chalkboard wall under the famous "Facebook: What's on your mind?" prompt. With his wife Pastor Dorcas Rigathi watching, he leaned forward and carefully scribbles "Wantam", Kenyan slang for "one term," a phrase often used in political satire. The moment was lighthearted, with Gachagua smiling as he stepped back to admire his work. Dorcas then adds her own inscription: "Life is what you make out of it." Her positive note drew praise, while Gachagua's choice instantly set Kenyan social media ablaze. Gachagua makes his mark at Meta's Silicon Valley office, inscribing 'Wantam' during his 2025 U.S. tour pic.twitter.com/xneZ1N2QO8 - PropesaTV (@PropesaTV) August 9, 2025 "Guy has taken hatred to a new level... full time investment," quipped one X user. "I hope the husband read his wife's message after writing one-tam," joked another. "Can't stand this guy but I support this," added a third. The "Wantam" clip has been shared widely, adding a humorous twist to Gachagua's packed itinerary, which includes meetings with Kenyan diaspora groups, American investors, and top tech companies in Silicon Valley. The slang itself is no stranger to Kenyan politics, it surged during Gachagua's tenure as Deputy President, becoming meme fodder across TikTok, Twitter, and political commentary pages. Seeing him embrace it abroad, and in a global tech hub, has struck many as a surprising nod to Kenya's vibrant online culture. Political commentators say such viral moments, however trivial, can shape public perception, particularly in an era where personality often rivals policy in influence. In July, Gachagua took his signature 'wantam' slogan to the valleys of Washington State during his ongoing U.S. tour, drawing a spirited response from Kenyan diaspora attendees. Speaking at the inaugural Ngemi Cia Ruraya cultural festival in Seattle, Gachagua energized the crowd with his rallying cry. "Hapa America mnasemaje?" he asked the jubilant audience, which roared back, "wantam!" a chant now widely recognized as a symbol of defiance against President William Ruto's regime.

Rigathi Gachagua's 'Wantam' graffiti moment at Facebook wall during US tour excites Kenyans

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Rigathi Gachagua's 'Wantam' graffiti moment at Facebook wall during US tour excites Kenyans

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