Kash Money, Nairobi Half Life actor Dedan Juma begs for financial support from fans

In a heart-wrenching revelation, one of the stars of the hit Kenyan film Nairobi Half Life and Kash Money, which captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of life in Nairobi, has asked for financial assistance from his fans and supporters.

Dedan Juma, whose identity has been widely associated with the film’s success, has come forward on social media to request aid, shedding light on a personal struggle that has left many of his followers moved and eager to assist.

Nairobi Half Life, which gained international acclaim for its raw, authentic depiction of the challenges faced by a young man trying to make it in the city’s ruthless urban landscape, marked a significant milestone for the Kenyan film industry.

Its success not only put Kenyan cinema on the map but also highlighted the immense talent within the local film industry, with several actors from the movie quickly rising to fame.

“Naomba tu mwenye ataona hii tweet na akuwe na uwezo,kindly am really begging for something to eat,maze ni noma hapa inje! Wenye ma kazi wametukulia vako maze,number yangu hii hapa 0720745279 Dedan,mwenyewe kitu kidogo anaweza niokoa nashukuru sana kwa chochote..naomba kwa heshma!” he shared on X.

Account haijakua hacked,this is me,Dedan Juma, really suffering, kindly requesting/begging for something to feed my kids,my number is 0720745279,unaweza piga kama huniamini,nawaomba tu wenye uwezo , tafadhali tu! https://t.co/H1MDb7SFkA

— Dedan Juma (@Jumanji_kenya) March 11, 2025

The actor’s appeal for support struck a chord with many fans and well-wishers who were shocked by the revelation, considering the film's success and its impact on the entertainment scene in Kenya. Many fans took to social media platforms, expressing their disbelief that an actor of such caliber could be facing such struggles, and voiced their support for the cause.

 “Account haijakua hacked, this is me,Dedan Juma, really suffering, kindly requesting/begging for something to feed my kids,my number is 0720745279,unaweza piga kama huniamini,nawaomba tu wenye uwezo , tafadhali tu!,” he answered a curious X user.

“Lakini mbona ukasirike na mtu anaomba usaidizi na wewe mwenyewe huna nia ya kusaidia,wakenya tuwache kuwa na roho mbaya,mwenzako akilala njaa inakufaidi nini?Mungu yuko,Najua anaskiza na hatuwezi zuia nia yake kwa wenzetu juu enyewe God sio bro ya mtu? Insh'Allah tufanikiwe wote,” he

While some social media users have been critical of the actor’s decision to publicly seek help, others have rallied behind him, citing the need for greater industry support for Kenyan actors and entertainers.

Calls for more structured financial assistance programs for creatives, as well as better-paying roles in local films and theater productions, have gained momentum as a result of this appeal.

“The creative industry can break your heart in a thousand ways. An actor starring on a Netflix show is begging for food or any help on,” commented Ramzzy, a creative director.

“Don’t know who needs to hear this, but please have a side hustle if you’re planning to be a creative. Make sure you have income for the low days/ years in the industry cause they will be there,” shared rapper Wangechi.

Film producer Queen Gathoni shared her two cents on the issue stating that while one might land a role on big platforms, greediness continues to wreak havoc, as producers have the final say.

“Okay, lets talk about it. Being on Netflix show in this country means nothing because, the producer has a budget and decides how much you are paid. Most Kenyan producers with a seat at the table are greedy and only want what’s best for them, Actors are barely respected here,’ she opined.

Olympian Denis Ombachi weighed on the matter giving his experienced in the acting world.

“These shows aint it, got an invite for a feature in a popular show and the pay hata haiwezi book flight to Mombasa. Never bothered, went back to cooking ugali,” he posted on X.