Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has confirmed the recovery of two former journalists, Kimani Mbugua and Eunice Omollo, who were admitted to the Mombasa Women Empowerment Network Mental Rescue Centre. In a statement on Tuesday, October 15, Sonko updated the public on their progress, revealing that both journalists have fully recovered. He has been covering their medical expenses since May when they were first admitted to the center.
Kimani Mbugua, a former Citizen TV presenter, was transferred to the Mombasa facility after receiving initial treatment at Mathari Hospital. Eunice Omollo, an award-winning Health and Science journalist formerly with NTV, was admitted alongside him.
In a video shared by Sonko, both Mbugua and Omollo were seen speaking at an event commemorating World Mental Health Day. Omollo, confident and composed, addressed the audience as she embraced her role as a mental health advocate. “It is a profound honour to stand before you today on this special occasion of World Mental Health Day. I am so excited,” she said. “As a journalist, I often take note, listen, observe, and report about this kind of occasion. But today I do not stand here as a journalist. I am standing here as a mental health champion and an advocate,” she added.
Omollo shared her long battle with bipolar disorder, a condition that has affected her for nearly two decades. “For those who do not know me, my name is Eunice Atieno Omollo. I am an award-winning Health and Science journalist with over ten years’ experience. Other than that, I am a loving mother with a ten-year-old boy, a devoted daughter, sister, and friend,” she added.
Kimani Mbugua also spoke about his struggles, revealing that he had been battling mental health issues for the past four years. He noted that his journey to recovery has been challenging but confirmed that his condition has significantly improved since his admission to the center. Mbugua’s transfer from Mathari Hospital marked a turning point, allowing him to receive the necessary care at the Mombasa facility.
The event on World Mental Health Day highlighted their courage and resilience, showcasing their recovery journeys as examples of hope for others dealing with mental health challenges.
