Gossip

Youngboy Sido Moves to Trademark Viral ‘Ni Mbaya’ Catchphrase

2 min read

12 hours ago Scott

Kenyan digital creator Youngboy Sido has revealed plans to officially trademark the popular phrase “Ni Mbaya,” which has become widely used on social media platforms across the country.

The content creator warned that brands, influencers, and other online users may soon need his permission before using the phrase for business or promotional purposes.

According to Sido, he is in the final stages of registering both copyright and trademark rights for the famous slogan, which is currently popular among Kenyan youth and Gen Z users online.

Speaking during an online interview that later went viral, Sido said anyone using the phrase commercially without approval could face legal action.

He claimed that one person would soon be used as an example to warn others against using the catchphrase without consent.

The words “Ni Mbaya” have become common in Kenya’s online culture. Many people use the phrase jokingly to describe situations that are either extremely good, surprising, difficult or embarrassing, depending on the context.

After Sido’s announcement, social media users reacted differently, with some supporting the move while others questioned whether it would succeed.

The latest development comes at a time when copyright and trademark disputes involving famous Kenyan personalities are increasing.

Recently, veteran comedian Inspekta Mwala filed a court case against The Coca-Cola Company and content creator Awinja over the use of the name “Mwala” in a marketing campaign.

The comedian is reportedly seeking compensation amounting to Sh163 million, arguing that the campaign used material connected to his brand and stage name without proper permission.

Through his lawyer James Mbugua, Mwala also asked the court to stop the continued use of the branding linked to the campaign and requested compensation for damages.