Mzee Ngala Refutes Claims on Mijikenda Gala Night Proceeds

By Robby Ngoba

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

The family of Coastal veteran Bango icon Joseph Ngala popularly known as Mzee Ngala, has dismissed reports alleging that pledges made during the just concluded Mijikenda Cultural Gala fundraiser have not been honoured.

In a statement released on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the family expressed gratitude to leaders, organisers, artists and fans who turned up in large number to support the veteran during the first Mijikenda Cultural Gala held on November 27, 2025 in Kilifi Town.

The family described the event as historic and remarkable, stating that it celebrated Bango music, Mijikenda Cultural performance and unity.

The statement signed by George Ngala, the family commended Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs, who hosted the event, for steering the fundraising process transparently and in good faith.

According to the statement, Ngala says an amount of Ksh170,000 was raised during the event through contribution from fans, media personalities, influencers and well-wishes and was officially handed over to Mzee Ngala through the PS.

However, the family raised concerns over what they termed as misleading media reports pointing that pledges made during the event had not been honoured.

They clarified that they were in direct communication with the event organising committee and that there was no dispute or misunderstanding regarding the pledges.

“We fully understand that pledges involve due processes and reasonable timeline. Only a short period has elapsed since the event and claims suggesting otherwise are premature and do not reflect the true position,” read the statement.

During the show, Mzee Ngala confirmed receipt of the Ksh170,000 raised by fans.

The bango maestro also confirmed that he was yet to receive the pledges amounting to Ksh5.1m.

The family also expressed regret over a recent radio programme aired by Kilifi-based station, during which presenters allegedly contacted Mzee Ngala directly with consulting his family.

They claimed that the move appeared to misrepresent the fundraising process and urged media practitioners to exercise professionalism and responsibility.