Family Prepares for Final Farewell

The body of former television journalist Kimani Mbugua is scheduled to arrive in Nairobi today, Monday, October 20, 2025, ahead of his burial. The 29-year-old, who worked for both NTV and Citizen TV, died by suicide on the night of Tuesday, October 14, 2025, while undergoing treatment at a rehabilitation facility in Mombasa.

His family confirmed his death, stating he left a note behind. Kimani's father, Dedan Kimathi, shared his son's final words, which conveyed a sense of weariness: “I know I have taken myself; I have been a burden to myself, and I don't want to be a burden any further. I have chosen to rest in the hands of God.” Mr. Kimathi described his son as a brilliant mind whose potential was cut short by mental health challenges.

A Promising Career Derailed by Mental Illness

Kimani Mbugua was a talented media personality, known for his intelligence, charisma, and storytelling. He held a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and a Master of Science in Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict from the University of London. His journalism career began at just 19, joining Nation Media Group as a trainee while still in university. He quickly rose through the ranks, working in radio and later becoming an entertainment news reporter and producer, co-hosting shows like 'The Trend' with Larry Madowo.

He later joined Royal Media Services, where he worked for Citizen TV, Inooro FM, and Hot 96, covering diverse stories. However, his promising career took a difficult turn around 2020 when he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This condition, characterised by extreme mood swings, significantly impacted his life and career.

Intervention and Ongoing Struggles

Mbugua's struggles with mental health and substance abuse led to periods of homelessness and public appeals for assistance. His deteriorating condition caught public attention, leading to interventions from various individuals, including former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who offered to cover his medical expenses. Kimani was admitted to Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital in Nairobi before being transferred to the Mombasa Women Empowerment Mental Rescue Centre, where he had been undergoing treatment for several months.

Despite appearing to stabilise at various points, he experienced multiple relapses. His father attributed some relapses to negative peer influence. In recent months, Mbugua had shared updates suggesting he was rebuilding his life, sparking hope among fans and colleagues.

Mental Health in Kenya: A Growing Concern

Kimani Mbugua's death has sent shockwaves through the media industry and renewed conversations about mental health challenges facing young professionals in Kenya. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), global cases of mental health conditions and substance use disorders have risen by 13% over the last decade. Locally, Kenya's Taskforce on Mental Health (2020) found that mental illnesses, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use, account for 13% of the national disease burden.

His death underscores the urgent need for increased mental health awareness, early intervention, and accessible treatment for those affected.

Evidence/Data Box

• **Date of Death:** Tuesday, October 14, 2025
• **Age at Death:** 29 years old
• **Cause of Death:** Suicide
• **Diagnosis:** Bipolar Disorder (diagnosed in 2020/2021)
• **Mental Health Burden in Kenya:** Mental illnesses account for 13% of the national disease burden (Kenya's Taskforce on Mental Health, 2020)
• **Burial Date:** Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in Maragua, Murang'a County.

Unanswered Questions and Next Steps

While investigations into Kimani's death have been completed, aided by CCTV footage from the rehabilitation centre and the note he left behind, the full details of the circumstances leading to his suicide have not been publicly disclosed. The family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss.

What to Watch

The tragic passing of Kimani Mbugua is likely to intensify calls for more robust mental health support systems and resources across Kenya. Advocacy groups and healthcare professionals may leverage this moment to push for policy changes and increased funding for mental health initiatives. The media industry, in particular, may face renewed scrutiny regarding the pressures faced by young professionals and the availability of support mechanisms.

The family is seeking support to raise KSh 217,600 for his burial.