We tried everything: Prayer, Fasting, Therapy. I’m At Peace Knowing We Did Our Best – Kimani Mbugua’s Father Speaks

When the late journalist Kimani Mbugua passed away, the news broke the hearts of many who had watched his bright career unfold on TV and online. But behind the headlines was a family that had fought a long, painful battle alongside him, one marked by love, faith, and an unyielding hope that he would recover.

Speaking with calm acceptance, Kimani’s father shared details of his son’s final moments, not to sensationalize his death, but to shed light on the harsh realities of mental illness.

“He had been in and out of rehab so many times. We prayed, we fasted, we did everything we could. I am at peace because I know we tried our best,” he said, his voice carrying both sorrow and serenity.

Choosing to Speak — Not Hide

In a society where suicide is often treated as taboo, Mr. Mbugua’s openness is both rare and brave. Many families, driven by fear of judgment or stigma, choose silence. But Kimani’s father has taken a different path, choosing to talk about his son’s struggles as a way to honour his memory and start an honest conversation about mental health.

“We don’t want to hide or pretend. Kimani’s story should help others seek help early and remind parents that love doesn’t stop when the struggle begins,” he said.

A Call to Honour Kimani’s Life

Beyond mourning, the Mbugua family is inviting young people, especially Gen Z,  to celebrate Kimani’s creativity, humour and the light he shared even in his darkest times.

“We are inviting everyone to honour Kimani. He touched many lives and even in his pain, he wanted to bring people together,” his father shared.

A Long Battle Fought in Love

Kimani’s story is one of resilience. His family tried every possible route, from therapy and rehabilitation to prayer and community support. While their efforts couldn’t save him, they remain grateful for the love and help extended by friends and well-wishers, including Mike Sonko and Oga Obinna, who have supported the family emotionally and financially.

As they prepare to lay their son to rest, the family continues to advocate for open conversations around mental health, especially within families and faith communities.

“When we talk, we heal,” his father said. “If sharing Kimani’s story helps even one person, then his life will continue to make a difference.”