Mama Gift: How TikTokers painted Embu in colours of love for a struggling mother
By Steve Ireri, October 27, 2025After weeks of intense planning, the highly anticipated fundraiser for Embu TikToker Mama Gift Gathoge, who has been documenting her daily struggles caring for her son suffering from severe cerebral palsy, finally took place on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
Though many had expected a large turnout given the massive online publicity surrounding the event, most were left astonished when the attendance surpassed expectations, with TikTokers travelling from far and wide, flooding the roads, and filling a football pitch.
The crowd nearly doubled that of those who graced Kaluma Boy’s father’s fundraiser on September 28, 2025, which had also been solely organised through TikTok, mirroring the model used for Mama Gift’s event.
The spectacular day began with a grand display of Nduthi culture as a convoy of more than 200 boda bodas, their headlights beaming brightly, arrived at the venue, followed closely by hired matatus and private cars streaming in by the tens in the governor Cecily Mbarire-led county.
The fundraiser was held at the Njukiiri Showground, where TikTokers waved Kenyan flags energetically as speakers lined up on a lorry stationed at the far end to address the spirited crowd.
The master of ceremonies was MC Chris Kirubi, who received thunderous applause and cheers, owing to his previous role in directing Kaluma Boy’s Othaya fundraiser, where Priscillah Wa Imani had been the official MC.
As soon as everyone had secured a spot within the showground, the event commenced with an outpouring of generosity as Kenyans contributed wholeheartedly, leaving Mama Gift overwhelmed with tears of gratitude. The majority of the attendees sent their donations through the provided paybill number, while others opted to give in cash.
Only the donations made by public figures and renowned TikTokers were publicly announced, with each being invited to ascend the lorry, which acted as the podium, and deliver a brief speech lasting no more than five minutes.
Some of the key celebrities present included forex trader Kenyan Prince and his associate Mushkert FX, TikToker Swings Mauno, content creator Priscillah Wa Imani, TikToker Kaluma Boy, Gen Z MCA Mbithe Mulinge, Pastor Kanyari’s aide TikToker Kawira, and biker Brayo, among many others.
During the speeches, most public figures lauded the generosity of TikTokers and praised the new wave of social media philanthropy where online creators have taken it upon themselves to visit and support needy Kenyans.
They encouraged their peers to sustain the movement, which has become a beacon of hope for many.
The fundraiser received a significant boost following the success of Kaluma Boy’s earlier initiative, which had inspired TikTokers to declare that they would travel to Embu to stand in solidarity with Mama Gift and help her raise funds to take her son to India for specialised treatment.
Baby Gift, who is still an infant, is fed through tubes, and besides suffering from severe cerebral palsy, he is also asthmatic and struggles with cardiovascular complications, gastrointestinal issues, and frequent convulsions, making his care an emotional and financial burden for his mother.