Sharp Boy or Genuine? Story of Zack Who Raised KSh73 Million After Wheelchair Journey From Kenya to South Africa

Zack Kimotho’s wheelchair campaign raised Ksh 73 Million for a rehab centre in Kenya, sparking mixed reactions on its impact and progress.

The story of Zack Kimotho, who launched the “Bring Zack Back Home” campaign while travelling on a wheelchair from Nairobi to South Africa in the year 2012, continues to spark mixed reactions years later.

At the centre of the debate is whether the campaign was a genuine grassroots effort to support people living with spinal injuries or whether it reflects what many Kenyans today call the “sharp boy” trend, where public fundraising is questioned for transparency and accountability.

“Bring Zack Back Home”: What the Campaign Was About

Zack’s journey aimed to raise funds for a spinal injury rehabilitation centre in Kenya.

At the time, many Kenyans with spinal cord injuries had to travel abroad for treatment, with South Africa being the nearest option.

The campaign raised about Ksh 73 Million within 60 days through public contributions, including small daily donations from mobile users.

Zack described the support as deeply encouraging,“I am very grateful to Kenyans; it is these contributions which actually gave me more and more encouragement to go on,” he said.

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The target was Ksh 250 Million to build and equip a rehabilitation centre in Kiserian, Kajiado County.

Mixed Reactions From the Public

Over time, Kenyans have expressed different opinions about what happened after the campaign.

Some believe the initiative had a real impact and helped raise awareness about spinal injuries.

Oscar Ngish said,“I gave 10 bob… but his initiative helped my cousin; he was given a bed and free spinal treatment.”

Others, however, feel disappointed about how the project progressed.

Ephie Irus commented,“They didn’t get enough money to build and equip the hospital… politicians also made promises they never fulfilled.”

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Nyawira said,”Back then, urban games were not as bad as they are today.”

Lavender Israel commented,”Since I saw a guy being trained on how to cry and bend his neck in sorry and taken to different media houses to fundraise for his illness, I gave up on these contributions”

Rio Kariuki said,”Nkt..na vile aki ata nilikosa kununua sms nimtumie hizo 10bob

What “Sharp Boy “Mean

In today’s generation, the term “sharp boy” is frequently used to refer to people who are seen as smart in raising money or influencing others.

However, it is also sometimes used when people question whether the money was used properly or honestly.

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Zack Kimotho travelling to South Africa in his wheelchair in 2012 to raise funds for Paraplegic Centre
PHOTO/Nation