Kenyans Mourn Former Citizen TV Journalist Kimani Mbugua after His Death

The Kenyan media industry is mourning the death of former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua, whose inspiring yet heartbreaking story has touched many across the country.

Mbugua passed away on Tuesday night, October 14, while undergoing treatment at a rescue centre in Mombasa. His family has not yet released details on the exact cause of death, but the 29-year-old had been living with bipolar disorder for several years, a condition that cut short his rising career in journalism.

What Happened to Kimani Mbugua?

The young journalist had been open about his mental health struggles and had spent months in rehabilitation before his passing. Despite the efforts of his family, mental health professionals, and support from public figures such as Oga Obinna and politician Mike Sonko, Mbugua experienced several relapses.

Kimani first rose to prominence as a talented and vibrant storyteller during his time at Citizen TV, where his charisma and passion made him one of the most promising young journalists in Kenya. His departure from the media industry left many in shock, as he openly spoke about his journey with bipolar disorder and the challenges of mental illness in public life.

How Are Kenyans Remembering Kimani Mbugua?

Tributes have poured in across social media, with fans, colleagues, and fellow journalists describing him as brave, creative, and full of life. Many remembered him for his honesty and willingness to shed light on the realities of mental health, a topic still heavily stigmatized in society.

Kenyans continue to celebrate Kimani’s courage and talent, with messages of condolence flooding timelines under the hashtag #RIPKimaniMbugua.

By Modester Nasimiyu