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Viral Kenyan man in Buddha-like costume walking Nairobi streets finally identified
24th September, 2026 10:46 AM
A Kenyan man who has attracted attention on social media for walking around Nairobi in a Buddha-like costume and oversized metallic shoes has finally been identified.
The man, who goes by the name Kienyeji Smarter, has been spotted in the city dressed in a distinctive outfit that has left many Kenyans curious about his identity and the message behind his appearance.
Speaking during an interview, Kienyeji Smarter explained the inspiration behind his unusual outfit and why he dresses the way he does.
“Najaribu kuleta entertainment kidogo juu mambo sahi ni mbaya, watu wanapigwa na stress lakini ukiniona hivi unaanza kutulinza mwili,” Kienyeji Smarter said.
He explained that creativity was also a major motivation behind his unique dress code, saying he wanted to create an appearance that people could easily associate with him.
“Nikujaribu kuleta that creativity, mtu akiniona anasema, ‘hii outfit ni ya huyu jamaa,’” he explained.
Kienyeji Smarter addresses Buddha claims
The viral man also addressed claims from some social media users that his outfit was meant to imitate an Indian god.
He dismissed the claims, maintaining that he was simply expressing his talent and creativity through his appearance.
“Si kweli nimejaribu kuleta hii talent kama hii,” he said.
Kienyeji Smarter further explained the meaning behind some of the colours and accessories that form part of his distinctive outfit.
“Kama kawaida white inaleta amani, hizi viatu za black najaribu kuonyesha zile vitu zimefichwa chini,” he explained.
His explanation has offered more context to the unusual appearance that has sparked conversations among Nairobi residents and social media users.
Mosiria seeks to meet him
Following the attention surrounding Kienyeji Smarter, Nairobi County Officer Geoffrey Mosiria also expressed interest in meeting him.
In a social media post, Mosiria asked Kenyans to help him locate the man so that he could understand what he does and explore how he could be assisted.
“Majamaa niletee huyu mtu nataka kujua anafanya nini na ni Vipi Tutamsaidia. Ukimwona pigia my PA 0701625858,” Mosiria said.
The appeal has added another layer of interest to the viral story, with more Kenyans seeking to understand the man behind the striking costume.
For now, Kienyeji Smarter appears determined to use his creativity and unique dress code to entertain people while building an identity that Kenyans can easily recognise.
