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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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.
