Joy Karambu, also known as Kawira, is a Kenyan actress and comedian best recognized for her role as Kawira in the popular Swahili TV sitcom Papa Shirandula.
She portrayed the character of a sassy, outspoken maid who worked for the main character, Papa Shirandula (played by Wilbroda Otiende).
Kawira was a fan-favorite for her witty one-liners, hilarious antics, and chemistry with the cast, contributing to the show’s long run from 2007 to 2020 on Citizen TV. Off-screen, Joy has appeared in other Kenyan productions and remains active in comedy sketches and social media.
Beyond Papa Shirandula, Karambu is a trained journalist, former DJ, and versatile actress. She transitioned to other shows like Vioja Mahakamani and Vitimbi, where she continues to appear occasionally.
Karambu was married to Pastor Ephantus Wahome Safari, whom she met during an event where he worked as a stage manager.
They tied the knot and shared a public life focused on ministry and family. In December 2020, she gave birth to triplets, but tragically lost one shortly after; the surviving twins spent over a month in an incubator before coming home.
The couple supported emerging talents through Safari Records and aided underprivileged communities.
However, their marriage faced challenges and ended in separation around 2022–2023.
In July 2024, she addressed fan concerns about her absence via social media, confirming she was active and well, likely in Nairobi.
She emphasized focusing on family and personal projects.
Earlier articles from 2023 and 2020 also place her in Nairobi, discussing her family life and occasional comebacks on platforms like Instagram.
She maintains a low online profile lately, with no active X/Twitter account directly linked to her, and her last notable social media activity was reassuring fans of her well-being.
