Former The Real Househelps of Kawangware actor Onyi found himself at a turning point after a heartfelt public plea for help caught the attention of musician and former Starehe MP Jaguar.
Onyi had been going through a difficult period marked by financial hardship, homelessness and personal struggles. The COVID-19 pandemic made things considerably worse, and the actor found himself without steady income or a clear path forward.
Rather than ask for handouts, he publicly called on Jaguar for a job opportunity, saying he wanted to work and provide for his children.
How will Jaguar support Onyi?
Behind the scenes, Onyi’s sisters had already reached out to Jaguar and filled him in on the full picture, including their fears about his heavy drinking. Jaguar took the matter seriously.
Drawing on his former role as a director at NACADA, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse, he reached out to officials at the organisation and arranged for Onyi to enter a rehabilitation centre in Mombasa for three months.
In a phone conversation with Onyi, Jaguar was direct and encouraging.
“Your sisters told me your story, and I have spoken to the officials from NACADA because I was once a director there. They have agreed to work with us, and they will be with you for three months,” he said.
Jaguar also promised to cover Onyi’s shopping expenses during the recovery period, while the sisters pledged to remain by his side throughout.
He added that a discussion about Onyi’s possible return to acting would take place before the rehabilitation period concluded.
“Before you leave rehab, we will have discussed with your sisters whether you can return to acting,” Jaguar said, urging him not to let down those rooting for his recovery.
He also committed to visiting personally, stating:
“Between the 25th and the 1st, I will be there. I must come and check on you.” Onyi’s sisters were seen walking him out of his home as he departed for Mombasa.
How did Onyi react to the helping hand?
An emotional Onyi expressed deep gratitude to everyone who played a role in getting him the help he needed.
“Thank you to Jaguar for hearing my pleas. I also want to thank my fans because they helped him see the struggles I have been facing. I want to thank my sisters, too, because they feared I was going to die, especially because of how I was drinking. A big thank you to my wider family. I appreciate you all, including the NACADA officials who have come to pick me up. From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” he said.
