Papa Shirandula's brother reveals actor's final wishes

Who is Ngolove in real life, give us your background and journey in the art industry.

I’m Douglas Wafula. Born and raised in Busia County’s Bukeko village. I joined the art industry in 2006. l first started with music, then later in  2009 I moved to Kisumu to live with my brother Ambrose Bukeko.

While life wasn’t easy at all,  I did mjengo work for months to save for my first recording which  I managed to do. It’s there that I got an opportunity to curtain raise the launch of Summit Lager Beer at the Jomo Kenyatta sports ground. The guest artist was Nonini. Thereafter I went back home and joined Pamoja youth group which was actively engaged in acting and that’s how my acting career kick-started. A year later after sharpening my skills, I got lucky to be elected as the organising secretary of the group, a position I held for 15 years. I worked with NGOs that were doing community mobilisation and sensitisation on Gender-Based Violence, HIV/Aids, malaria prevention, TB, PMTC and child labour, and many more, including post-election violence reconciliation.

What inspired you to join comedy?

Art flows in our family lineage. My late brother Charles Bukeko aka Papa Shirandula set the pace and I followed.

Talking of  Papa Shirandula,  you severally featured in his show,  how did this happen, was it favour or talent?

Papa was a big brand in the art industry, but he valued talent a lot. Working with him wasn’t favour. I  joined Papa early in 2013 and I did several episodes on the show which gave me a lot of opportunities. Apart from being my brother, I loved his character - it was a unique one and I believe I  am the only person who can replace him because I learned a lot from him. 

I did not join him to seek fame and money, but rather to learn from him. That’s why his presence still holds significance in my life. One particular memory that stands out and fills me with pride is the fact that my father taught me how to fight for my place in the world of art. I refuse to look back now. Sometimes, it’s overwhelming to see his series being aired on TV, but personally, I choose to view it as a positive experience. My father was a popular actor who appeared in numerous TV shows and movies throughout his career. Watching his work helps me keep his memory alive.

Do you plan to follow in your brother’s footsteps and continue what he left behind?

As an artist, his death has greatly impacted my career in various ways. However, I have come to accept it and move forward. It’s important to remember that death is not the greatest loss in our lives; rather, the greatest loss is what dies within us while we are still alive. We had many plans together, but since he is no longer here, I must carry on. Through my own endeavors, we have nurtured a great deal of talent. When you look at the comedy and film industry in Samia, you can see how it has expanded significantly, and I take great pride in that. Building upon his legacy, I have established a comedy studio called Ngolobes Family. Many young individuals have gained valuable skills through it, and some are now able to make a living through their involvement.

I have also established a music studio, which was one of our initial plans with Papa to enhance the film industry in our county and the entire country. The record label is thriving, as I identify talents within Busia County and nurture them to become independent artists. This provides opportunities for young people who are struggling to find their personal identity in life.

Speaking of Papa, how do you best remember him?

Ngolobe, my stage name, was created by the late Papa for his show. It is a Samia name that means “evening.” My character was unique; I portrayed Papa’s nephew in the play, a village boy from the rural area who provided him with information. I was completely against Wilbroda and did everything I could to disrupt her marriage. In one skit, I remember bringing Papa a new wife at Kawangware Plot 10. Though it hasn’t been easy to reach where I am today, it required a lot of persistence, discipline, and, above all, faith in God.

Why did you choose your dialect?

Many people were unaware of Papa’s roots as he concealed his identity, and many believed he was from Mumias. This is what prompted me to introduce Kisamia in comedy to depict our roots, and people received it positively. Additionally, apart from entertainment, it is our responsibility to educate and promote our culture.

Can you tell us about your studio and your entire crew? What exactly do you do?

As a team leader, I provide every member with an opportunity to create short stories where they take on the role of the main character. Each person has a story to share, and we focus on real-life experiences rather than fabricating tales. As artists, it is essential to have a meaningful message in everything we do. While comedians have the freedom to entertain and make the audience laugh, it is crucial to incorporate elements of education to thrive in the industry.

What is the take-home message?

Love what you do and pursue it with passion. Show respect to everyone, regardless of their status, because you are no different from them. Remember that every expert or master in any field was once a beginner, so embrace your journey.