The untold story of Mary Khavere alias Mama Kayai

Benson Wanjau (Mzee Ojwang) and Mary Aisha Khabere(Mama Kayai). Photo: Courtesy.

 

• Her fans know her as the famous Mama Kayai from the popular show Vitimbi but away from the limelight, she leads a simple life as Mary Khavere.
• She speaks to Caroline Nyanga about finding her niche in Kenyan comedy, staying grounded and leaving a legacy for upcoming actors.

Mzee Ojwang needs to send a present to his mpango wa kando, so he gets Mogaka, an illiterate young man from Kisii to deliver the gift.   But Mogaka, who has no idea, inadvertently takes the gift to Mzee Ojwang’s wife Mama Kayai, who discovers the truth and confronts her husband. Mzee Ojwang tries to explain his way out of his predicament but Mama Kayai will hear none of it. The two get into a heated argument that prompts Mzee Ojwang to flee.

This is one of the most memorable episodes of Vitimbi, the popular situational comedy show that made its debut on Kenyan TV screens in the late ’70s.