Days after former Citizen TV presenter Kimani Mbugua was seen collecting garbage on a Thika street in a disturbing incident, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has stepped in to offer help and support.
Mbugua, who had previously struggled with mental health issues and addiction, was spotted in a distressed state, sparking concern from the public and media alike.
In a heartfelt post on his X account (formerly Twitter) on Sunday evening, Sonko detailed his actions to ensure Mbugua received the necessary care.
“Following reports that Kimani Mbugua has relapsed and gone back to the streets, today, I dispatched a team to locate him. He was found in Makongeni estate, Thika, Kiambu County,” Sonko shared.
The image of Mbugua, once a well-known TV personality, collecting trash on the streets of Thika shocked many, especially those who remembered his previous career.
Sonko, who has been actively involved in supporting people with mental health and addiction challenges, responded quickly.
“He was brought to our headquarters, where we are currently overseeing his well-being after providing him with new clothing and allowing him to take a refreshing shower,” Sonko added.
Sonko didn’t just provide basic care for Mbugua, but he also took the time to engage with him on a deeper level.
“I engaged him in an extensive counselling session and decided to offer him a second chance,” Sonko wrote.
The former governor expressed his belief in the power of rehabilitation and his intention to help Mbugua reclaim his life.
Initially, plans had been made to fly Mbugua to Mombasa for further treatment, but Sonko mentioned that due to his current state, those plans had to be altered.
“Given his current condition, we are unable to fly him to Mombasa as initially planned; instead, he will be driven back to the Mombasa Rehabilitation Centre tomorrow,” Sonko explained.
Sonko also made it clear that, at this stage, he would not involve Mbugua’s family but would focus on ensuring his well-being.
“I have chosen not to involve Kimani’s family at this stage, but I will ensure that he remains at the rehabilitation centre,” he stated.
In a more hopeful tone, Sonko emphasized that Mbugua could, upon his recovery, make a positive impact by helping others who are struggling in similar ways.
“Upon his full recovery, he will have the opportunity to work there, similarly to Conjestina Achieng, who has been discharged and offered a position to provide counselling services at the centre,” Sonko shared.
Sonko also reflected on the progress made by other individuals who have gone through similar rehabilitation programs, such as former NTV journalist Eunice Omollo.
Omollo had been admitted to Mathari Mental Hospital alongside Mbugua and later transferred to the Mombasa Women’s Rehabilitation Centre.
“Former NTV journalist Eunice Omollo, who was admitted to Mathari Mental Hospital alongside Kimani and later transferred to the Mombasa Women’s Rehabilitation Centre, is now employed at K24 TV,” Sonko noted, praising her successful return to the media industry.
Omollo has also produced two impactful documentaries on tuberculosis and World Bipolar Day, showcasing her recovery and return to her professional life.
However, Sonko also noted some unfortunate setbacks, including the case of Nabala Nasibo, who had relapsed into heavy drinking after being discharged from rehabilitation.
“There is a concerning case involving Nabala Nasibo, who resumed heavy drinking after being discharged from rehabilitation,” Sonko remarked, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by those recovering from addiction.
Sonko concluded his update with a strong commitment to Mbugua’s continued support.
“Therefore, I am committed to ensuring that Kimani receives the necessary care and support for his full recovery,” Sonko affirmed.
“Stay tuned for part two,” he teased, leaving many followers eagerly awaiting further updates on Mbugua’s progress.
