Sculptors Mandela Ondula and Cheryl Nagawa, have unveiled a life-size sculpture of the late Charles Bukeko, the celebrated actor commonly known as Papa Shirandula.

The tribute has touched the hearts of fans and fellow entertainers who remember Papa as one of the country’s most beloved television icons.

The sculpture captures Bukeko in his signature on-screen look, complete with the distinctive maroon outfit, a red hat and a staff under one arm, that made his Papa Shirandula character instantly recognizable.

Crafted with remarkable attention to details, the piece stands as a vibrant reminder of the actor’s unforgettable moments to Kenya’s entertainment industry.

Charles Bukeko rose to fame through the hit TV comedy series Papa Shirandula, a show that became a household name across Kenya and beyond.

His portrayal of a humble night guard living a double, pretending to be a successful businessman to his family, brought laughter and lessons about integrity, family values and the everyday struggle of ordinary people.

His ability to mix humour with powerful storytelling earned him fans of all ages and made him a pioneer in local television.

The celebrated actor and comedian passed away on Saturday, 18 July 2020, at the age of 58. He had travelled to Kakamega before falling ill and later developed breathing problems.

A COVID-19 test confirmed he was positive, and he chose to isolate at home. However, his condition deteriorated, forcing his family to rush him to Karen Hospital, where he passed away.

Mandela, who has sculpted notable figure such as Jomo Kenyatta, Edi Gathegi, Eliud Kipchoge and Lupita Nyong’o, said he learned the craft from his late father, Luke Oshoto Ondula.

   “Some of my late father’s works include the Tom Mboya sculpture in Nairobi’s CBD and the lions at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausolem. He also created a painting for former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and a Julius Nyerere sculpture in Dar es Salaam,” he said

Fans who have seen the sculpture say it feels like a fitting memorial. Social media is filled with emotional reactions, with many describing the piece as a beautiful way to keep Papa Shirandula’s memory alive.

Some shared personal stories of how the actor’s performances brightened their evenings or inspired them to pursue careers in acting and comedy.

The sculpture is expected to become a cultural landmark, giving fans a physical space to honour Bukeko’s life and achievements.

Plans are underway to place it in a public location where admirers can visit, reflect, and celebrate the legacy of a man whose work transcended television screens to become part of Kenya’s cultural identity.

Through this stunning work of art, Mandela Ondula and Cheryl Nagawa have ensured that the laughter and wisdom of Papa Shirandula will continue to resonate, reminding all who see it of the power of storytelling and the enduring spirit of one of Kenya’s greatest performers