Kenyans online have sympathized with an Embu motorbike rider who was carrying gallons of milk that toppled, spilling all the milk following the poor condition of the road he was using.
The pictures circulating on social media depict a scene of defeat, showing the rider sitting by the roadside with his motorbike lying in the middle of the road as he counts his losses. READ FULL STORY
His story spread like wildfire, attracting reactions from various stakeholders seeking to make the poor man’s life better. Among them was a local tours company, frantically searching for his details to treat him to a three-day holiday to Mombasa.
“We are looking for him! Men go through a lot in pursuit of a better life. We all have a good and bad day in office. This is an example of a bad day. We understand him. We feel his pain. We are saying sorry by rewarding him 3 days fully paid vacation to Mombasa!” the company wrote on its social media pages.
The offer elicited mixed reactions from netizens, with many divided over the benefits of a holiday compared to actual financial support.
“I don’t think people realise how vacations work….you go on vacation to rejuvenate, strategise and rest. Once you come out if it you have a clear head and are able to execute ideas. He has probably never rested a day in his life. If I was in a crisis….I would choose a vacation over money any day!” a social media user named Nyambura Kamau noted.
“This man deserves a moment to refreshen him, thank you for coming through,” Morris JKim expressed.
While the vacation was seen as a thoughtful act, many people questioned why the tour company could not provide more support by offering monetary aid or helping him expand his business. Others perceived it as an attempt to exploit his misfortune for the company’s marketing purposes.
“Although the vacation offer is a kind gesture, it might only provide temporary relief for this guy. Given the tough circumstances he’s facing, practical support such as financial assistance and business development could make a more lasting difference in his life,” Simuyu Wafula argued.
“Has he told you holiday is his immediate need? If you want to help him find him and let him tell you what he really needs. Afterwards take him for that holiday,” another named Aritas Coaches opined.
“It’s time people stop using others’ misfortunes to market themselves; this guy needs money to continue his business; not some tour in fancy hotels only to come back home poor! Give him money to continue doing business. Safari atajipeleka,” Prince Mack commented.
Many defended the company, arguing that the holiday was its way of supporting the rider, and urged those who were dissatisfied to set aside their criticisms and contribute whatever they could within their means.
However, one Kenyan has taken the initiative to repair the poorly done road while combining efforts with other stakeholders. The entrepreneur, touched by the rider’s story, shared that he met with him and also disclosed that plans for rehabilitating the St. Annes Kiriari-Kithunguriri road are in progress.
“As for the dilapidated section of the road, I have instructed the Eagle 1 Concrete and Machineries Ltd Road Engineering Department to ensure it is rehabilitated fully within 72 hours,” Kenjava Wakagoto Mwaniki, the businessman, said.
