Comedienne and digital content creator Millicent Ayuwa, popularly known as Dem Wa Facebook, has revealed that she once played professional football in the Kenyan Women’s Premier League before venturing into comedy.
Speaking on a local podcast on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Dem Wa Facebook shared that football was not only her passion but also her means of survival while growing up.
“Nilianza kujisomesha nikiwa Class 8 juu my parents hawakuwa wanajiweza… Nilikuwa nacheza ball, nikaanza kujilipia form one, naenda shule kucheza juu ya ball,” she recalled.
After high school, she joined Trans Nzoia Falcons, a top-tier women’s team, but noted that female footballers were poorly compensated compared to their male counterparts.
“Unajua ball ya madem hailipi… Wao wanapewa doo, wanapewa basi, wanalipwa allowances vizuri, but for the ladies, hata pads hatukuwa tunapewa,” she lamented.
According to Dem Wa Facebook, women players could go an entire year earning as little as Ksh10,000, forcing many to abandon their football dreams. Her most rewarding experience came during the Chapa Dimba na Safaricom tournament, where her team received Ksh1 million, marking the first time she earned a substantial amount from the sport.
“Tulikuwa player 12 tukapewa 1 million… Nikasema football me nimewacha juu haina doo,” she added.
The content creator explained that despite her love for the game, the lack of financial stability pushed her to pursue other opportunities, eventually leading her to comedy — where she has since built a strong personal brand and online following.
Her remarks come months after she praised Harambee Stars for their spirited performance in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), urging leaders to implement sustainable policies that ensure players receive consistent income beyond tournaments.
“Congratulations Harambee Stars… Motivation isiishie hapa jamani. Now let’s implement policies that will ensure players make a steady income throughout sio kwa tournaments tu,” she wrote on Instagram.
