A video of former award-winning health journalist Nasibo Kabale living in difficult conditions has stirred an outpouring of empathy from Kenyans, many offering to help her get back on her feet.
Nasibo revealed that her situation began after a 2020 bout of depression, triggered by the rising fatalities from the Covid-19 pandemic, which severely impacted her mental health. She explained that during the height of the pandemic, some of her colleagues were laid off, and she struggled to cope, eventually leading to hospitalization and being placed on antidepressants.
“After that, I went to work two times, but on the third attempt, I quit,” she said.
Nasibo, 26, was on the frontlines as a health reporter at NTV, delivering daily updates to Kenyans on the pandemic, both nationally and globally. It was during a time when social distancing, sanitizing, washing hands, and wearing face masks had become the new normal.
She explained that this drastic change worsened her condition and strained her relationship with her daughter, who now lives with her father.
“She’s in Grade II now, doing very well, but I’m sure she misses motherly love. I would feel the same if I were in her position,” she said.
Nasibo expressed her frustration at the lack of support, explaining that many people don’t understand that depression is a serious illness.
“They think maybe you’re just feeling sorry for yourself, and I’ve learned that sometimes when you’re down, people abandon you,” she shared.
Despite the challenges, Nasibo expressed a desire to return to her passion, though not on television. Instead, she hopes to pursue podcasting and vlogging if she can secure the right equipment.
“I used to be a writer, but the media is changing. People don’t even buy newspapers anymore, so I’d like to do something in the podcasting space,” she said, adding that she already has a ring light and only needs a good phone and microphone to get started.
Kenyans, led by comedian and philanthropist Eric Omondi, responded positively to her appeal for help.
“This is sad. Please help me find her. Let’s lift her and give her back her shine,” Omondi said, pledging his support.
“I have cried. Woie! What can we do? Where is she?” gospel musician Vicky Kitonga added.
“The good thing is that she can still express herself very well, all is not lost. A little support and she’ll be on her feet! God’s grace!” added an Instagram user.
“Tupewe playbillnumber. She is very respectful and good hearted. My God bless her as he did to job,” added another.
“She still got so good enunciation and diction,may she get the help she needs and deserves. She’s still a champion,” was yet another word of encouragement.
