Bradley Marongo, popularly known as “Mtall” or “Goliath Gen Z,” has finally received his first pair of shoes that fit, thanks to the efforts of Citizen TV journalists Jeff Koinange and Patrick Igunza. Standing at a staggering 8 feet tall, Marongo has become an internet sensation, but his extraordinary height has also brought about significant challenges, particularly when it comes to finding shoes that fit his unusually large feet.
Marongo, who has gained a following of over 15,000 on TikTok, has long been a figure of fascination, especially in his hometown of Kangemi, where he is well-known for his towering stature. His social media bio proudly declares him the “Tallest in 254,” a title that he embraces despite the many difficulties his height brings. Weighing 135 kilograms, Marongo often faces unwanted attention, with children staring in awe and strangers taking photos without his permission.
One of the most persistent challenges Marongo has faced is finding shoes that fit his feet, a problem he has dealt with since birth. Until recently, he had never owned a pair of shoes that truly fit, often resorting to second-hand markets in search of footwear, though even this was a futile endeavor. The stares and whispers he attracts while shopping only add to the discomfort.
However, Marongo’s fortunes took a turn when he visited Citizen TV, where he shared his story with journalists Jeff Koinange and Patrick Igunza. The two journalists were deeply moved by Marongo’s plight and took it upon themselves to find a solution. “We were really touched by Bradley’s story,” said Jeff Koinange. “He’s incredibly tall, with large feet, and finding regular shoes for him was nearly impossible.”
Determined to help, Koinange and Igunza scoured the markets and eventually found two pairs of shoes for Marongo. The shoes, though second-hand, were original Adidas, size 55—a size that is almost impossible to find in regular stores. Excited by their successful mission, Patrick Igunza revealed, “We’ve found some shoes for him. They’re second-hand, but they’re original Adidas, size 55.”
In a live broadcast that captured the attention of many Kenyans, Koinange displayed the two pairs of shoes on air and called out to Marongo, saying, “Bradley, if you’re watching, we’ve got shoes for you. Come on over.” Igunza humorously added, “Let’s try these on and see if they fit. If they don’t, we’ll make adjustments until they do.”
For Marongo, this gesture was more than just about getting shoes; it was about being seen and cared for in a world that often overlooks those who are different. At 27 years old, Marongo refers to himself as the tallest Gen Z in Kenya, a title he proudly owns. Despite the challenges that come with his height, he maintains a positive outlook on life, often sharing his experiences on TikTok, where his followers are fascinated by his height and large feet.
Marongo’s height, while making him a unique personality, also brings about many challenges. His bed is custom-made, yet he still can’t fully stretch out. When it comes to clothing, he prefers baggy shirts and shorts, as finding trousers that fit him is nearly impossible.
Living in Kangemi, Marongo spends his days hustling, though he previously resided in Kayole. His towering presence even made him a spectacle during anti-government protests, where he caught the attention of the police. Despite the attention, both positive and negative, Marongo remains a humble and determined individual, using his platform to share his story and connect with others.
The efforts of Jeff Koinange and Patrick Igunza have brought a small but significant victory to Marongo’s life, showing that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, there are always people willing to help. For Marongo, the gift of a pair of shoes that fit is not just about comfort—it’s about dignity and the simple joy of being able to walk comfortably in a world designed for those much smaller than him.
