Former Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) David Osiany has stepped in to support Harriet Akinyi, the Nakuru-based trader whose tearful plea for customers went viral on TikTok. Osiany has promised to visit her "Tule Kienyeji" restaurant and offer mentorship to stabilize the business.

Akinyi had touched the hearts of Kenyans after sharing a video lamenting that days would pass without a single client walking through her doors, despite her heavy investment in the CBD eatery. "I am drowning in debt and fear," she admitted, sparking an online conversation about the harsh realities facing SMEs in the current economy.

The Power of "KOT"

Osiany, a vocal advocate for small businesses, urged Kenyans to rally behind her. "We must support our own," he stated. His call to action, combined with mobilization from local community groups, led to an immediate surge in footfall. Photos shared online showed the once-empty restaurant packed with customers enjoying traditional meals.

"I will visit her personally," Osiany told the press. "It is not just about buying a meal today; it is about giving her the management skills to survive tomorrow." He emphasized that many businesses fail not because of poor products, but lack of visibility and strategy.

• The Turnaround: Akinyi reports that sales have spiked, a testament to the mobilizing power of social media. A local Luo organization in Nakuru also organized a group lunch, boosting her morale.
• The Bigger Picture: The incident highlights the fragility of the hospitality sector, where high rents and the cost of living crisis are squeezing margins to the breaking point.

Hope Restored

For Akinyi, the tears of despair have turned to tears of gratitude. The challenge now is to convert this viral fame into a sustainable customer base. With mentors like Osiany stepping in, the "Tule Kienyeji" proprietor has a fighting chance.

Her story stands as a reminder: in the digital age, a single honest cry for help can sometimes bring a nation to your doorstep.