Partying and indulging in alcohol consumption among celebrities such as musicians, actors and comedians is something common. It is usually fun until one becomes dependent on one of the most abused drugs in Kenya. Some of these celebrities have managed to kick the addiction while others are still struggling to remain sober.
In this article, WoK takes a look at some of the Kenyan celebrities and a public figure who have battled alcoholism in the past and are now on the path of recovery.
Tina Kagia
Tina Kagia is a renowned radio presenter who has worked with various top radio stations such as Classic 105, Nation FM and One FM. During a live stream titled ‘Against All Odds’ that aired on her Facebook page on 26th September 2021, the radio presenter narrated how she was on her way to destruction due to alcoholism.
“I started drinking in Form 5 after a friend gave me alcohol and promised me on how high I would get after drinking it. Little did I know that I had awoken a sleeping giant because in our family on our paternal side, we are genetically predisposed to alcoholism. Beers did not work for me. I needed harder drinks to get high. I missed getting raped or dying several times while in this foreign country. I believe it is the prayers of my parents that kept me,” she narrated.
She however sought help and was admitted in a rehabilitation center for three months where she also studied a diploma course in addiction counseling.
Joseph Kinuthia – Omosh
Joseph Kinuthia alias Omosh is a famous comedian and actor who came to the limelight through Tahidi High – a popular drama series that aired on Citizen Television. During a past interview with one of the local dailies, Omosh revealed that he struggled with alcoholism even while still acting at the show.
“I began to experiment with alcohol when I was a teenager due to peer pressure. It then became an addiction whereby I would do anything to get high regardless of my then high-flying career,” he explained.
However, after being stuck in the cycle for almost 24 years, his elder sister advised him to seek help in a rehabilitation center to get out of the yoke of addiction. His struggle with the bottle still continue.
Also Read: Career Paths Machachari Actors Took After the Show Ended
Dennis Mugo – OJ
Dennis Mugo alias OJ is a Kenyan actor who was quite popular in the Tahidi High drama series. Speaking during an exclusive interview with ‘Glow with Makena’, the actor revealed that he had gotten to a point where he couldn’t think without alcohol.
“I would get to the office and need a drink. At the time Tahidi High had come to an end and I was working with an advertising agency. My boss would say he wants a creative idea and all I could think of is that I needed a drink. I would get into a bar and even without money people would buy me drinks. I would have my money but people would offer to buy me drinks,” he narrated.
He is now reformed and hopes his life story will help others to say no to drugs and substance abuse.
Kabi WaJesus
Kabi Wajesus is a famous Youtuber, content creator and filmmaker who came to the limelight through his Youtube channel where he makes lifestyle content together with his wife Milly WaJesus. Speaking during an exclusive interview with Comedian Felix Odiwuor in the Bonga Na Jalas show that aired on Jalango TV, Kabi revealed that he first drank alcohol while in class six.
“Before 2013, I was not born again. Nilikua mlevi sana and in 2011, nilipata Tuberculosis. Niliambiwa niache pombe, sigara na hizo vitu za bhangi,” he narrated.
After he was diagnosed with tuberculosis, he made up his mind to quit drinking and giving his life to Christ instead.
Alex Mwakideu
Alex Mwakideu is a veteran radio presenter who currently hosts a breakfast show at Milele FM. During a past interview, the radio presenter revealed that he quit alcohol in honor of his late mother.
“Imagine niliwacha pombe kabisa… I did it for my mum. The last day I had a drink was on 25th October 2019, a few weeks before my mother died. I was totally lost and decided to stop drinking in honor of my mum,” he revealed.
It’s been more than two years since he made that decision and the comedian has never looked back, still pushing stronger.
Also Read: Pampered Village: A Tour Inside Alex Mwakideu Restaurant In Kitengela
Nana Gacega
Nana Gacega is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC). In a past interview with one of the local dailies, Nana revealed that she started taking alcohol to forget things she was going through and feel numb. Recently, she took to instagram to celebrate 21 years of staying sober and recovering from being an ardent alcoholic.
“21 years ago today I made the biggest decision in my life which was to stop drinking. I just want to thank everyone who has been on this journey with me 21 years ago till today. Thank you for your support, love and encouragement,” the instagram caption read.
