Comedian and philanthropist Eric Omondi has changed his stance on walking the full distance to Mombasa.
On Tuesday, January 10, the entertainer began an ambitious attempt to walk 486 kilometres from Nairobi to Mombasa. However, his first day was filled with difficulties.
Eric started the trek to raise funds for his charity initiative, Team Sisi kwa Sisi, aiming to reach Mombasa by Valentine’s Day.
The foundation has been supporting various causes over the past two years, including assisting grieving families and victims of police brutality. The walk was meant to raise money for a Help and Rescue Centre that would include a clinic, secondary school, warehouse, and ambulances.
After starting the walk at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium, Eric covered 63 kilometres on the first day, reaching Machakos. Unfortunately, he sustained injuries to his leg and hip, which required medical attention.
Despite the setbacks, Eric vowed to continue his mission and encouraged supporters to contribute financially to help him complete the walk.
On Wednesday, February 11, radio presenter Alex Mwakideu called Eric live on air to check up on him. The 43-year-old admitted that the going was tough.
“It is not easy. I forgot that I was old,” he said, but added that he would reach his goal slowly.
Eric noted that he planned to walk 70 kilometres that day, aiming to finish around 7 pm. “I will sleep in Makindu and wake up tomorrow to continue.”
However, Eric revealed that he would not walk the full distance to Mombasa and explained the reason.
“There are places that I won’t walk. Like, for instance, Man Eaters, where there is wildlife,” he said.
He noted that this decision was not made independently.
“The Kenya Wildlife Service will not allow me to pass through certain stretches on foot. There are 150 kilometres of places that I cannot walk. In total, I will walk around 370 kilometres. I will do that in four days.”
Kenyans on social media rallied behind Eric, with some promising to cheer him along the way.
