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From pulpit to TikTok: Why Kanyari still dominates online conversations
12th March, 2026 03:10 PM
Like the proverbial cat that has nine lives, Salvation Healing Ministries founder Prophet Victor Kanyari has mastered the art of reinvention, remaining relevant and rising above controversies that would have claimed the careers of many.
He has mastered the streets of social media and has found the magic of turning any form of publicity to his advantage, keeping thousands glued to his socials and more streaming to his church.
While a number of preachers of his time faded away after failing to embrace social media or retreated to operating purely offline, Kanyari learnt the ropes and has been using social media to his advantage.
His daughter, Sky Victor, appears to have picked up her lessons as she is also building a social media empire one post at a time, away from the shadows of her celebrity parents.
The self-styled prophet has turned his ministry (and perhaps entire life) into a captivating story for some, a controversial one for others and a reality for himself.
Here is a look into why the preacher who gained fame following the Ksh310 saga dominates social media.
Prominent family
Kanyari hails from a prominent family that has been in the space of religion for decades. His mother, Prophetess Lucy Nduta, had her fair share of controversy, and as she fought her battles, Kanyari silently stepped forward and established his own church.
With the programs aired across TV and radio stations, he quickly amassed followers in the thousands until the saga shook his empire to the core, with some members bolting out.
By then, he was already a man of able means with strategic investments to keep the ministry running, sustain publicity and attract new members.
Embracing a controversial past and celebrity status
While many would have sunk, Kanyari embraced his past and used it to advance his ministry, with some praising him for being a living example of true transformation.
At the height of his fame, Kanyari married an equally famous figure, the late gospel singer Betty Bayo. Being a public figure, his life naturally attracted attention, driving his fame and popularity.
It is during their marriage and afterwards that he turned to social media, wielding it expertly to grow his online presence.
Gospel amid controversy
Marion Naipei’s private life was thrust into the public eye after a disturbing video surfaced online.
Amid criticism and support, Kanyari embraced Naipei, following the biblical example of Jesus, who embraced sinners and welcomed her to his church, where the pair continues to deliver lively sermons that have elevated their respective online profiles.
Since then, she has become a constant figure at services and weeks later, the pair continues to keep the buzz alive.
The preacher also hosted Choice Kinoti, who appeared in the videos leaked by a Russian man who documented his interactions with multiple African women.
Blending controversy with the gospel, keeping followers glued to his next move is an art the preacher has mastered.
His social media accounts tell the story of a self-styled preacher riding on the gospel, laced with statements that raise eyebrows.
Courting publicity
Kanyari’s dalliance with the public is well-documented, especially through his charity initiatives that continue to impact many lives.
From donating food supplies to the elderly to supporting youth and women in his community, the preacher has been wielding his influence expertly, with his social media team ensuring that each engagement pushes his brand.
