Kimani Mbugua’s Journey from Crisis to Recovery: A Story of Redemption and Resilience

Kimani Mbugua, a former television host and journalist known for his work on NTV’s The Trend alongside Larry Madowo and his later role at Citizen TV, has opened up about his battle with bipolar disorder and his journey to recovery. Diagnosed in 2020, Kimani’s struggles have been both shocking and inspiring to his followers, who witnessed his rise in media and subsequent challenges.

Raised in a Christian family, Kimani’s erratic behavior seemed out of character, a sentiment echoed by his father in a recent interview. Earlier this year, a viral TikTok video depicted Kimani in a highly agitated state, demanding repayment of debts and threatening to use a firearm to settle disputes. The video sparked widespread concern among Kenyans, who recognized the severity of his mental health struggles.

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Kimani Mbugua’s Father Sets the Record Straight: He’s Not in Custody

Kimani’s father revealed that a critical turning point in his son’s condition may have been influenced by external factors. In an interview with Oga Obinna, he recounted an incident where Kimani’s drink was allegedly spiked at a party. Disturbing photos and videos found on Kimani’s phone showed him in a vulnerable state, vomiting and appearing to be mistreated. His sister discovered what appeared to be a white substance in his glass, deepening suspicions of foul play.

The deterioration in Kimani’s mental health prompted urgent intervention. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko stepped in to support his recovery, facilitating his admission to a rehabilitation center in Mombasa. This marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the once-prominent journalist.

During his time in rehab, Kimani received an overwhelming outpouring of support and prayers from fans and well-wishers. In one poignant moment, a video of him singing Sauti Sol’s Feel My Love went viral, showcasing his renewed spirit and determination. In the video, Kimani also appealed for his release, insisting he was committed to his recovery.

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Kimani Mbugua Reflects on Key Takeaways from Rehab

Reflecting on his journey, Kimani frequently expressed gratitude to God and those who supported him through his darkest moments. He credited his faith as a cornerstone of his healing process. “God gives you beautiful things, but if you take them for granted, He can take them away,” he shared in a recent interview. “I realized that God gave me a beautiful talent, but I took it for granted.”

Kimani also acknowledged his past struggles with atheism, noting that his experiences have brought him closer to understanding and appreciating the presence of a higher power. “Six months clean, and now I am not just counting those six months. Today is day one of freedom and sobriety,” he declared, emphasizing his renewed sense of purpose and hope.

Now healthy and revitalized, Kimani continues to share his story, offering lessons from his journey and inspiring others facing similar battles. His recovery serves as a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and community support in overcoming life’s challenges.

Kimani Mbugua’s Father Sets the Record Straight: He’s Not in Custody

Kimani Mbugua’s father has clarified that his son is not being held against his will at the rehab facility where he’s receiving treatment, despite what Kimani claimed in a recent viral video.

The 28-year-old’s father explained that Kimani is still in recovery, even if his son believes otherwise, which is why they have not authorized his discharge.

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Kimani Mbugua Reflects on Key Takeaways from Rehab

Addressing Kimani’s request for release, his father shared, “I’m his dad, and I care deeply…sijamfunga (I haven’t locked him up),” explaining that, while Kimani’s health has improved, more progress is needed before he can leave on his own.

“We’ll take him out the same way we brought him in; he can’t leave by himself. So, Kimani, my son and dear friend, calm down, calm down. As your dad, I know you… I know that when you’re in this state, if we’re not careful, you might mean well but end up doing something harmful,” he explained in an interview with YouTuber Vikie Vikinah.

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Kimani Mbugua’s Rehab Video Singing Sauti Sol’s Song Goes Viral [VIDEO]

A day earlier, Kimani, a former Citizen TV journalist, had appealed for his release from the medical facility, saying he felt fully recovered. He urged those responsible for his discharge to let him go, stating, “Hi everyone. I just wanted to ask whoever is responsible for my release to please let me go. My mom and dad came here two months ago and told me it’s not up to them.”

He went on to explain that he was officially cleared for discharge on September 25

Kimani Mbugua Reflects on Key Takeaways from Rehab

Media personality Kimani Mbugua shared a heartfelt message of encouragement with Kenyans who have supported him during challenging times. In a video posted to his TikTok, he opened up about life lessons he’s learned and his outlook on the future.

“No matter how many times you fall, the most important thing is to get back up. If you keep getting up and moving forward, nothing can stop you,” he stated.

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I’m Healed – Kimani Mbugua Shares Emotional Message to Kenyans from Rehab

He emphasized the importance of “failing forward,” noting, “Over the last five years of going through tough times, I’ve learned that the key is to rise again, trust yourself, and move forward—even if you fall again. As long as you keep going, it’s not over.”

Supportive comments flooded his post:

– *lyn*: “Always praying for you, man. I understand you so well—I have a loved one who went through the same, and now she’s perfectly fine.”
– *user4968399368294*: “May God’s grace be with you, Kimani. No one chooses illness. Every time I see your videos, I pray that God elevates you even higher. Praying for you!”
– *josphat mwangi*: “So glad to see you’re improving…praying for a full recovery 🙏 Looking forward to seeing you back on TV. God’s Speed!”

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Kimani Mbugua’s Rehab Video Singing Sauti Sol’s Song Goes Viral [VIDEO]

Kimani recently shared a joyful video dancing to Sauti Sol’s music at his rehab center, expressing deep gratitude to Kenyans who have supported him on his recovery journey. He acknowledged their uplifting prayers and generous financial help, which were instrumental to his healing, and concluded by saying he now feels fully restored, both physically and emotionally.

I’m Healed – Kimani Mbugua Shares Emotional Message to Kenyans from Rehab

Media personality Kimani Mbugua has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Kenyans for their unwavering support during his challenging times.

In a video, Kimani thanked everyone who contributed financially and offered prayers for his recovery. Currently in rehab, Kimani joyfully shared that he has fully healed, crediting his recovery to both the kindness of God and the support from his fellow Kenyans.

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Kimani Mbugua’s Rehab Video Singing Sauti Sol’s Song Goes Viral [VIDEO]

“My dear fellow Kenyans, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the immense love you’ve shown me. Words cannot express my gratitude. To everyone who continues to support and pray for me, thank you. I’m no longer where I was three or four months ago. I’m healed, and I give thanks to God and to you for your prayers. They’ve truly worked. God has been merciful and made me whole again. I’ve been broken more than 15 times, but each time, God restores me, and I come back stronger. Asanteni sana, and may God bless you all,” Kimani shared.

Recently, Kimani posted a video of himself enjoying Sauti Sol’s music while entertaining his fellow rehab mates. The clip received an outpouring of positive responses from Kenyans, celebrating his progress.

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Kimani Mbugua Issues Key Update from Rehab to Kenyans

Kimani has been battling mental health issues, and his online appearances have often raised concern. His father previously revealed in an interview with Oga Obinna that Kimani’s struggles began after his drink was allegedly spiked at a party. “My daughter found disturbing photos and videos of him at the party—drinking, vomiting, and being assaulted by girls. She had also seen a white substance in his drink,” his father explained.

Kimani Mbugua’s Rehab Video Singing Sauti Sol’s Song Goes Viral [VIDEO]

A video of former Citizen TV presenter Kimani Mbugua in a rehabilitation center has recently surfaced online. The clip, shared on his TikTok account, shows Mbugua performing Sauti Sol’s song “Feel My Love” for others at the facility. In the post, Mbugua also encouraged fans to follow his new TikTok profile for future content.

Earlier this year, Mbugua sparked concern among Kenyans with a series of troubling social media posts. Public figures, including comedian and media presenter Oga Obinna, rallied to offer him support. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also stepped in, offering to cover Mbugua’s medical bills at Mathare Hospital and later transfer him to the Mombasa Women’s Hospital rehab center, where renowned boxer Conjestina Achieng is also receiving treatment.

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Kimani Mbugua Issues Key Update from Rehab to Kenyans

In May, Mbugua’s father shared an update on his son’s condition, noting that while Kimani was still struggling with his mental health, they continued to rely on prayer for his recovery. Kimani is currently at the Mombasa Mental Rescue Center, where he continues his battle with mental health issues, a situation that frequently raises concern when he appears online.

Mbugua’s father revealed in an interview with Oga Obinna that his son’s struggles began after his drink was allegedly spiked at a party. The incident, which took place shortly after Mbugua’s birthday in February, left him severely affected. Toxicology tests were performed, but a recording of the event, captured on Mbugua’s phone, was lost, complicating the investigation.

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Kimani Mbugua’s father recounts how acquaintances drugged his son’s beverage and then removed any traces of the incident.

The father also shared how his son began smoking openly in 2021, influenced by friends involved in drug use. After receiving treatment, Mbugua appeared to recover but was allegedly spiked again at a later party, causing a second relapse. Despite the setbacks, his father expressed gratitude to the doctors and others who have supported Mbugua through his recovery journey.

Kimani Mbugua Issues Key Update from Rehab to Kenyans

Media personality Kimani Mbugua appears to be recovering well after being taken to rehab last month by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko due to concerns about his online utterances.

Kimani spoke during an Instagram live session on Amina Abdalla’s account, wearing blue hospital scrubs and providing an update since he was last seen publicly.

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Why Sonko Wants to Transfer Kimani Mbugua from Mathare to Mombasa Rehab

“Endelea kuniombea, naskia poa. Hata leo nafaa kupewa injection,” he said, expressing optimism about his condition.

In a conversation with a woman off-camera about his medication, the individual encouraged him, saying, “Utapona,” to which he responded, “Thank you, Inshallah.”

Addressing the camera, Kimani expressed gratitude: “I would like to thank Mama Amina. Ni mtu ai… I don’t know what to say thank you. I’ve been treated so well; the food is great. It’s so great, it doesn’t even… am I in the hospital? I’m eating biryani in a hospital? This hospital offers people biryani,” he laughed heartily. “And pilau, the food here is so good,” he added, revealing their meals on Fridays.

Kimani has been battling mental health issues, and his online appearances often elicit concern. In May, his father told Oga Obinna in an interview that his son began experiencing mental health problems after his drink was allegedly spiked at a party.

“My daughter took his phone, went through, and saw photos and videos of him at the party drinking while vomiting and falling as girls were beating him up. Before that, my daughter told me she had seen a white substance in his glass,” he said.

He mentioned that the party took place on February 20, the day after Kimani’s birthday, and they suspect his drink was spiked.

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Msupa M, an influencer, responds to being associated with Kimani Mbugua’s difficulties

Kimani’s father said he was taken to the hospital and toxicology tests were carried out. However, Kimani’s phone, which had the recordings, got lost.

“I told my daughter to confiscate that phone; how it got lost we don’t know,” he said.

After Kimani sobered up, his father asked if he smoked. He had never seen him smoke until 2021 when Kimani openly smoked in his presence.

Kimani’s father conducted his investigation and discovered that Kimani’s friends were using drugs, influencing his behavior. Kimani was taken to the hospital, and after beginning to recover, he was allegedly spiked a second time.

“The following year, after six months, Kimani went out, and the next morning I was called and told he was in the same condition as the first time,” the father said.

He thanked the doctor for advising Kimani not to smoke.

Why Sonko Wants to Transfer Kimani Mbugua from Mathare to Mombasa Rehab

On Wednesday, former Nairobi County governor Mike Sonko visited former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua at Mathare Hospital, where he is currently admitted.

In a Thursday morning statement, Sonko, a wealthy businessman, revealed that his visit aimed to check on the progress of both Kimani Mbugua and former NTV journalist Eunice Omollo.

Sonko mentioned that he managed to see Kimani Mbugua, converse with him, and share a pleasant moment.

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Sonko has offered to take Kimani Mbugua to rehab

“I visited Mathare Hospital with Oga Obinna and Kimani Mbugua’s family to check on their recovery progress. We were warmly welcomed by the medical team attending to them, who updated us on their condition. Eunice Omollo was receiving treatment in the women’s ward during our visit, so I only managed to interact with Kimani Mbugua. We had a good time reminiscing about past interviews and discussing his current struggles,” Sonko shared on Twitter.

He accompanied his statement with a video of himself at Mathare Hospital, engaging cordially with Kimani Mbugua.

Sonko emphasized his plan to transfer the young journalist, who has been battling mental health issues, from Mathare to the Mombasa Women Rehabilitation Center, believing that a change of environment would aid in his recovery.

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“Kimani Mbugua has contributed significantly through his work, and it’s our turn to give back with hope, love, and care. We were highly impressed by the hospital’s leadership and the professional healthcare workers. Therefore, even if we transfer them to Mombasa, it will be for the purpose of changing the environment, which can greatly contribute to recovery. This is why I decided, together with the family, to move them to the Mombasa Women Rehabilitation Center, where Conjestina Achieng is, to see if this change will benefit them,” Sonko explained.

The former governor reiterated his support for both Kimani and Ms. Omollo in their recovery journey and wished them a speedy recovery.

Sonko has offered to take Kimani Mbugua to rehab

Former Nairobi County Governor Gideon Mbuvi, widely known as Mike Sonko, has offered to assist former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua in his recovery journey.

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Msupa M, an influencer, responds to being associated with Kimani Mbugua’s difficulties

Comedian and former radio host Oga Obinna revealed that the young journalist, who has been grappling with psychological issues, is currently receiving specialized treatment at Mathare Hospital.

Sonko has proposed to transfer Kimani from Mathare Hospital to the Mombasa Women’s Hospital rehab center after consulting with his parents.

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“In consultation with Kimani Mbugua’s parents, I will pay his bill at Mathare Hospital and transfer him to the Mombasa Women’s Hospital rehab center. Conjestina Achieng is still there and doing well,” Sonko announced on his Twitter page.

The former governor made this statement after an interview on the Obinna Live show, where he was informed about Mbugua’s condition.

During the interview, comedian Obinna mentioned plans to send the former journalist to rehab for about a year.

“I can pay the bill at Mathare, and then we can transfer him to where Conjestina is currently at Mombasa Women’s Hospital. They have professional doctors, very good doctors. I will pay the Mathare bill and cover his costs there,” Sonko stated.

Additionally, the politician offered to take Kimani’s parents on a brief vacation to Mombasa to rest after their ordeal.

He also offered to help settle the outstanding rent arrears for veteran journalist Eunice Ommolo, who is currently undergoing treatment.

Msupa M, an influencer, responds to being associated with Kimani Mbugua’s difficulties

Kimani Mbugua’s father recently shared distressing revelations about his son’s struggles with mental health. He disclosed that Kimani’s issues originated from an incident where his drink was allegedly spiked at a party. He recounted how his daughter stumbled upon disturbing evidence of the event on Kimani’s phone.

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“My daughter took his phone, went through it, and discovered photos and videos of him at the party, drinking, vomiting, and collapsing while being mistreated by girls. Before that, she mentioned seeing a suspicious substance in his drink,” he recounted.

Following the father’s disclosure, online users pointed fingers at Kimani’s friends for failing to protect him. Social media influencer Mollage, reportedly a close friend of Kimani during his career peak, indirectly addressed the accusations on May 18 via her X account.

“Everyone involved in this will face consequences, I assure you. As for my friends and supporters, thank you for checking in on me. I’m doing well and surrounded by those who matter. I’m okay,” she wrote.

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Although Msupa M did not explicitly reference Kimani’s situation, her followers interpreted her message as a response to the ongoing issue and offered their support.

In a separate interview with a local media outlet on February 4, 2020, Kimani Mbugua opened up about his then-fiancée, Michelle Njeri. He proposed to Michelle at her workplace while she was unwell, and they had plans for a wedding later that year. However, circumstances changed in 2022 when Michelle ended their relationship due to Kimani’s condition becoming too overwhelming for her to handle.

“My relationship with my ex-fiancée ended, and I was devastated. I was deeply invested in the relationship, but I had made many mistakes and caused her a lot of pain. Understandably, she reached her breaking point and decided to end it,” Kimani admitted.

To ensure Kimani’s safety, his father has taken significant measures, including relocating him to a secure environment under close surveillance by family and neighbors.

Kimani Mbugua’s father recounts how acquaintances drugged his son’s beverage and then removed any traces of the incident.

Kimani Mbugua’s father recently shared insights into his son’s academic journey, professional achievements, onset of mental health challenges, and their impact on both the family and their shared business ventures. Kimani Mbugua, formerly a journalist at Citizen TV, has grappled with severe mental health issues over the past four years, sparking public concern due to his social media activities. In an interview with Oga Obinna on May 14, his father provided an update, assuring that Kimani is now in a secure environment, closely monitored by family and neighbors.

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According to his father, Kimani currently resides in an apartment in Makongeni Phase 10, Thika, chosen to keep him close to family members who could provide supervision and support. The father emphasized safety measures in place to prevent self-harm, highlighting the family’s commitment to Kimani’s well-being.

Reflecting on Kimani’s earlier accomplishments, his father spoke proudly of his academic excellence and successful career. Despite initially preferring law, Kimani pursued journalism, garnering recognition from influential figures like Churchill and Larry Madowo. However, his mental health began deteriorating in February 2020, marked by concerning incidents such as unexpected confessions of substance use during a board meeting.

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Further distress arose when Kimani’s girlfriend reported his erratic behavior, leading to hospitalization where he was restrained and disoriented, leaving his father deeply troubled. Investigations revealed Kimani had been exposed to harmful substances at a birthday party, exacerbating his condition.

Regarding Kimani’s public accusations against him, including theft and selling his car, his father clarified that these incidents occurred during distressing episodes, prompting desperate measures for urgent care. Despite the financial strain, Kimani himself suggested selling his car to cover medical expenses, underscoring the family’s dedication to his recovery.

Kimani Mbugua Receives Family Support In Mental Health Journey (Video)

Former Kenyan media personality Kimani Mbugua has been in the news due to concerns about his mental health. In a recent interview, his father provided an update on his condition and the steps being taken to support him.

Safeguarding Kimani’s Well-Being

Kimani’s father revealed he is currently residing in a secure apartment in Makongeni Phase 10, Thika. This decision keeps him close to family members who can monitor him.

“He’s still recovering,” explained his father. “To ensure his safety, he’s close to family. His cousins live in the same building, and the neighbors are also involved in his care.”

The apartment has safety measures to prevent self-harm. “The place is secure,” his father emphasized. “In case of an episode, he can’t harm himself, but family can still reach him.”

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Celebrating Achievements

Despite the current challenges, Kimani’s father remembers his son’s accomplishments with pride. He highlighted Kimani’s academic and professional successes.

“Kimani recently turned 28,” his father said. “He excelled in school, attending private institutions after his village nursery school. He earned an A at Njiiri School and later transitioned to a church school in Nairobi, Karura.”

Kimani pursued journalism over law, a choice his father initially opposed but ultimately supported. This decision led him to connect with media figures like Churchill and Larry Madowo.

Kimani’s career flourished, and he was a pillar for his siblings and mother until his mental health struggles began.

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Understanding Kimani’s Journey

Kimani’s father recounted the February 2020 incident that signaled a turning point. During a board meeting, Kimani unexpectedly confessed to substance use, something his father had never witnessed.

“Everything was normal until February 2020,” his father shared. “We were in a board meeting at my consulting firm, where he’s also a director. He stood up and admitted to being under the influence for days. This was a shock, especially since we’re a Seventh-day Adventist family. There were also warning signs, like leaving his car unlocked in the basement.”

Former Journalist Kimani Mbugua Struggles With Bipolar Disorder

Kimani Mbugua, a well-known Kenyan journalist, has been open about his battle with bipolar disorder. He has previously appealed to his followers for support in managing his illness.

Bipolar disorder can cause unpredictable mood swings, which may explain Kimani’s occasional social media outbursts.

In a recent video, Kimani appears agitated and demands repayment from those who owe him money. His demeanor suggests he may need additional support to manage his bipolar disorder.

”If you owe me money better send it now because I have guns to protect my money, mimi nitakusafirisha binguni wacha vitisho baridi za @williamsamoeiruto, ” he wrote.

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Another post referencing Satanism further highlights the potential need for professional mental healthcare. Kimani’s social media activity raises concerns that cannot be definitively diagnosed online.

It’s important to remember that Kimani previously received public support in 2023. Kenyans raised Ksh 500,000 to help him establish a business after seeking help following a stay in rehab.

Concerns regarding Kimani Mbugua’s health have arisen following his most recent outburst

Concerns about the well-being of former TV and radio personality Kimani Mbugua have surfaced on social media, with users expressing worry about his health amid recent posts addressing financial matters.

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Kenyans raise 420K for Kimani Mbugua

Kimani, who has been open about his battle with Bipolar disorder, took to his social media platforms to urge anyone who owes him money to settle their debts promptly or face consequences. His posts have raised alarms, indicating a need for urgent assistance.

In one video, he sternly addresses Kenyans, while in another, he demands repayment from debtors. These posts paint a troubling picture of someone in distress.

Just a month ago, Kimani appealed for help after reportedly being robbed during a live TikTok session. He recounted the incident, stating that he was mugged by an individual wielding a machete while on a morning walk in Thika. Despite sustaining injuries to his leg and hand, he assured his followers that he was coping. He reported the incident to the police and sought assistance in recovering his Samsung A34 phone, which was stolen during the altercation.

 

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This incident adds to previous public appeals for financial support from Kimani. Last year, he received overwhelming assistance from Kenyans who contributed over Sh500,000 to aid him during a period of financial hardship. Initially requesting Sh200,000 to start a business, Kimani’s plea garnered support beyond his expectations, with Tiktoker Nyako helping raise more than double the requested amount.

The recurring instances of financial strain and recent distressing social media posts underscore the need for Kimani Mbugua to receive appropriate support and intervention to ensure his well-being.

Kenyans raise 420K for Kimani Mbugua

Kimani Mbugua, a former Citizen TV personality, is extremely appreciative of how Kenyans came together to raise money for him after he posted a request for assistance online.

When Kimani learned that Kenyans had donated twice as much as he had requested, he showed his deep thanks during a live TikTok session with digital content maker Nyako, who had initiated the online fundraising.

In his request for assistance, KImani had pleaded with Kenyans for precisely Sh. 200k to launch a business since he was having financial difficulties.

“Niseme au nionyeshe (should I say or go ahead and just show you)?” Said Nyako teasingly as she went on to ask the former TV presenter to guess how much in total netizens had contributed for him. “So we are at Sh. 420,000!” 

After a brief, dramatic pause, the developer of digital material exclaimed excitedly, “It’s a lot!” Mbugua was overcome with joy as soon as she heard the sum.

In expressing his gratitude to Kenyans and internet users in general for responding, Mbugua stressed that he had not anticipated that his request would result in such kind and substantial responses.

“Thank you! Thank you so much. I never would have imagined ingekuwa hivi (it would be like this). I am so grateful to all of you. Asanteni sana,”

Mbugua said while pumping his fist in celebration.

In an interview last week with comedian Oga Obinna, the former TV host detailed his struggles since leaving his position in 2020.

He continued by saying that because he had previously worked for Kenya’s largest TV station, many Kenyans mistrusted him when he posted his Instagram video pleading for assistance.