Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has revealed that his daughter, Saumu Mbuvi, suffered from the same mental health condition as the late journalist Kimani Mbugua.
Sonko made the shocking admission during Mbugua’s burial ceremony, which was held in Maragua, Murang’a County.
The politician confirmed that Kimani Mbugua had struggled with mental illness. He also noted that Mbugua’s death has created renewed discussions about the importance of mental health awareness.
A Father’s Painful Truth
Addressing mourners, Sonko spoke with great pain regarding the prevalence of illness and the hardships faced by families.
He confirmed that his own daughter, Saumu Mbuvi, shares the same condition, described as bipolar and mental health issues.
“The rich also cry, we also suffer in silence. To show Kimani Mbugua, Conjestina Achieng, and others that this disease of bipolar and mental illness comes from God, my own daughter Saumu Mbuvi is suffering from the same condition,” Sonko revealed.
Sonko explained his decision to treat his daughter locally, rather than seeking treatment abroad.
He stated that he chose not to take Saumu to places like the US, London, or India, despite having the money to do so.
Instead, he took his daughter to Mama Amina’s rehabilitation centre in Mombasa.
“It’s not that I didn’t have money to treat my daughter in the US or London, mimi napenda kulia na maskini sana. I took my own daughter kwa mama Amina akatibiwa pamoja na Kimani na Conjestina,” Sonko said.
He clarified that he wanted his family’s experience to be seen by the other patients. This was so they would not feel that they had been ‘dumped’ there.
They could see that Sonko’s family was also going through similar struggles.
The philanthropist expressed gratitude that Saumu had recovered. “I thank God my daughter alipona,” he added.
Sonko’s Work with the Late Journalist
Sonko used the platform to speak about his commitment to philanthropy. He currently serves as the President of Good Deeds in Kenya.
He recalled that media personality Oga Obinna had reached out to him for assistance with two or three cases, including Kimani Mbugua.
Sonko felt that the environment needed to change for the patients. He arranged for Kimani and his father to be flown to Mombasa for rehabilitation from Mathare Mental Hospital.
Sonko confirmed he makes thorough follow-ups on his cases because he does not give up easily. He would visit Kimani and other patients, like Conjestina, often, sometimes three times a month.
Kimani Mbugua, a former journalist known for his vibrant personality and on-screen charisma, passed away after a long battle with mental illness two weeks ago.
His death has sparked renewed conversations about the importance of mental health awareness and support, especially among men and media professionals.
BY moses sagwe
