Entrepreneur and influencer Saumu Mbuvi, the daughter of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, has publicly addressed her ongoing mental-health journey—dispelling rumors of drug addiction and reaffirming that she lives with bipolar disorder.
In a candid social-media statement posted Thursday, Saumu said she felt compelled to speak after comments made by her father during a recent funeral went viral, reigniting speculation about her personal struggles. Saumu clarified that while she has battled bipolar disorder for years, she has never been to rehab for drug addiction, contrary to claims circulating online.
“What I have never battled is drug addiction. I was never in rehab for that,” she wrote. “Yes, I’ve battled bipolar disorder, a condition that has tested me in ways words can hardly explain.”
Her post immediately drew attention across Kenya’s digital space, with many applauding her courage and honesty.
The clarity follows remarks by her father, Mike Sonko, who had spoken emotionally about his daughter’s health during Kimani Mbugua’s funeral earlier this week. His comments—though seemingly sympathetic—sparked an online storm, with some netizens misinterpreting them as references to substance abuse and rehabilitation.
In her response, Saumu said she was hurt by the public nature of the remarks, particularly coming from someone so close to her.
“It hurts to be shamed for trying to heal,” she wrote. “It hurts even more when that shame comes from your own blood.”
Saumu first revealed her bipolar diagnosis several years ago, describing her experiences with emotional highs and depressive lows that often left her feeling isolated. She has previously credited therapy, medication, and regular workouts for helping her stabilise her moods.
“You are not broken. You are human. You are worthy of understanding and love,” she said. “I may be bruised, but I am not destroyed.”
Her story adds to a growing chorus of public figures breaking taboos around mental illness in Kenya’s entertainment and political circles.
Across social media, fans, influencers and fellow celebrities have rallied behind Saumu. Many thanked her for “speaking up for those who can’t,” while others urged her to continue using her platform to normalise conversations about mental health.
She ended her message with hope: “If you’re struggling, please seek help. Don’t let shame silence you. Healing is not weakness—it’s courage.”