The trending heartbreaking story of Nasibo Kabale, a former Nation Media Group journalist, has recently caught the headlines. Many could not believe what had happened to the once-put-together journalist. Who is Kabale and how did she end up on the streets?
Her Turn For Worse During COVID
Kabale was once an award-winning journalist working with the top media houses in Kenya. She is a respected health journalist. She previously worked for Nation Media and Standard Group.
All was well until Nasibo Kabale’s life took a tragic turn after she left her well-paying media job due to depression.
Kabale, who was once a voice for health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a video, she recounts the traumatic experiences during the pandemic, including witnessing the rising death toll. The impact was so severe and it took an emotional toll on her.
Nasibo reveals her struggles with mental health and homelessness. She now finds herself in a vulnerable position, struggling to cope with her circumstances since then. The pressure from reporting became overwhelming for her.
She was admitted for her mental health issues and was on anti-depressants. Things got off-track and her condition deteriorated further. This prompted her decision to leave her once stable job to prioritize her health.
Facts About Nasibo Kabale
- She received a Presidential Award in 2020, due to her excellent coverage of the pandemic.
- Kabale is a graduate of Kenya Methodist University (KEMU) where she undertook communication and media studies.
- The veteran journalist is also an alumnus of the University of Central Missouri in Broadcast Journalism.
- She started her media career at Standard Media Group in 2017 before moving to Nation Media Group.
- Kabale is now homeless, separated from her young daughter, who is currently living with her father.
- She is currently doing odd jobs and hopes to get back to writing to regain control of her life.
Way Forward
The video has sparked widespread concern, drawing attention to the stigma surrounding mental illness in Kenya.
Well-wishers led by other journalists have formed a group to raise money and take her to rehab, then ensure she is back on her feet.
Struggling to make ends meet, Kabale survives by collecting trash and scrap materials from people’s homes. Despite her challenges, she remains hopeful about her future.
“I want to work and provide for my baby. I am a good writer, and I can do that,” she declared.
In a similar story, Mike Sonko stepped forward to assist former journalist, Kimani Mbugua, who has been facing mental health illness. The youthful journalist started suffering when he was retrenched by a renowned media house and drugs got the better of him.
The former Nairobi Governor offered to transfer him to Mombasa Women’s Hospital, which is a better medical facility. Kimani Mbugua’s parents agreed to the move. Sonko also promised to settle Mbugua’s outstanding bills at Mathari Hospital.
