NAIROBI — For years, Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre has been no stranger to headlines. Known for his spirited sermons, blunt humour, and public rebukes, he has long commanded attention. But it was a slap delivered mid-sermon and a song, strummed gently on a guitar, that recently pushed him into the spotlight on an entirely different stage: TikTok.
A Pastor Goes Viral
In April 2025, a video of Pastor Ng’ang’a slapping a sleeping congregant twice during a live service went viral. The man was escorted out as the congregation watched in stunned silence. The clip sparked national uproar and debate, drawing condemnation from leaders including Homa Bay MP George Peter Kaluma, who called the act “a gross violation of human dignity” and urged action against the church.
The man in the video, identified as Willy Mwangi, initially said he accepted the slap as a blessing. But weeks later, Mwangi came forward claiming he had been threatened and humiliated. “My business was affected, my reputation ruined,” he told local media. “I didn’t speak earlier because I feared for my life.”
Still, the pastor staged a dramatic reconciliation. In a follow-up service, Mwangi was invited back to the altar and appeared to forgive the preacher. “I’m ready for another slap,” he said, calling it part of his spiritual healing.
The Seattle Song
Just as the controversy was peaking, Pastor Ng’ang’a offered something unexpected: a song. Videos began circulating of him strumming a guitar and singing a simple yet catchy refrain, “Naenda Seattle” (Swahili for “I’m going to Seattle”). The song, recorded during a service or mission event, showed a gentler side of the preacher one rarely seen during his more intense sermons.
TikTok users quickly picked it up. The hashtag #NaendaSeattle gained traction, with fans and critics alike sharing duets, remixes, and heartfelt reactions. Many called it “soothing” and praised its sincerity. For a man known more for shouting than singing, it was a surprising shift.
“Shuka Zakayo!” – More Music, More Memes
Another musical moment that caught fire was his dramatic performance of “Shuka Zakayo,” a spirited gospel song drawn from the biblical story of Zacchaeus. With his guitar in hand and voice rising, Ng’ang’a repeatedly calls, “Shuka Zakayo! Leo lazima nikae kwako!” (“Come down, Zacchaeus! Today I must stay at your house!”). The line became an instant meme. TikTok creators stitched the phrase into comedy skits, reaction videos, and worship remixes. Some interpreted it as a message of repentance, others as pure Ng’ang’a showmanship but either way, it resonated widely across social media. In Ng’ang’a’s hands, scripture became soundbite, and a sermon became a song shared across timelines.
A Master of Pulpit Performance
Ng’ang’a’s preaching style walks a fine line between sermon and performance. He is known for phrases like “Saa zingine ni ngumu” (“Sometimes life is hard”) and “Hapa ni referral, siyo church” (“This is a referral centre, not just a church”) quips that often go viral for their bluntness and comic timing.
Though some find his humour refreshing, others find it inappropriate, particularly when it veers into ridicule. Critics have raised concerns that his theatrics may cross into psychological or even physical harm.
A Controversial Figure with a Devoted Following
Ng’ang’a’s public life has not been without its challenges. He has previously faced allegations ranging from traffic offences to domestic abuse claims he has denied or dismissed as attacks on his ministry. Despite this, his church continues to attract large crowds, and his supporters view him as a prophet with a unique spiritual authority.
He has built a strong digital presence, with his TikTok account amassing thousands of followers and views. One recent video, where he delivers a message in a quieter tone, playing guitar, and singing softly, was viewed more than 100,000 times in a matter of days.
Faith in the Age of TikTok
Pastor Ng’ang’a’s viral fame points to a larger trend: the rise of religious figures on social media. Platforms like TikTok have given preachers, prophets, and pastors direct access to audiences far beyond their church walls. In this space, spectacle often travels farther than sermons.
Ng’ang’a seems to understand this. Whether commanding the pulpit with fire and brimstone or serenading viewers with gospel guitar, he plays both roles well. The controversy, the music, the memes all are part of a growing digital footprint that has turned him into a household name.
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