There is no doubt that the comedy industry has grown tremendously over the years. Thanks to the numerous platforms, upcoming comedians now have avenues to showcase their talents.
Consequently, there has been an increase in the number of comedians. If well supported, comedy has the potential, to some extent, solve the problem of unemployment.
While comedians have managed to make us laugh, I doubt if they have, in the process, taught us anything new. This begs the question: What is the role of a comedian in a society?
It is easy to say to make people laugh; it appears to be obvious. But is that their sole role? Or is there more to it?
In my opinion, it ought to be more than just making people laugh. Comedians, like other artists, should criticise, educate, and entertain.
READ MORE
Uhuru Kenyatta: I hold no grudges and ill will against anybody
State explores new markets to grow tea exports
ODM leaders vow to shoot down Cherargei Bill on term limit
Kenya win two silver medals at Africa boxing event in DRC Championships
I have had an opportunity to listen to some of our celebrated comedians. Most of their jokes are not funny at all, neither do they excite an intelligent mind. Most of them dwell on tribal ascents and stereotypes targeted at members of certain communities. As a result, our comedians have become a predictable loot.
Even worse, some of our comedians, in their efforts to sound funny, distort English and Swahili words not knowing that a majority of their fans are school-going children. Comedians should do more than make us laugh.
