NAIROBI — Kenya woke up in mourning on Tuesday after the death of Kimani Mbugua, a former Citizen TV journalist once hailed as one of the country’s brightest young media talents. He was 29.

As of publication, the cause of death had not been officially confirmed, but family sources said Kimani passed away on the night of October 14, 2025. His death followed years of well-documented struggles with mental illness — a fight he shared publicly, often with painful honesty.

A Voice That Echoed Beyond the Screen

Kimani first captured national attention not just for his sharp reporting, but for his courage to speak about mental health — a topic still burdened by stigma in Kenya.

In 2023, he appeared in a viral video that shook many. “Hi guys, Kimani Mbugua here, former star of TV… niko kwa shida, and I need your help,” he said, his tone weary yet sincere. That clip sparked an outpouring of support from viewers who remembered him as the charismatic young face of Citizen TV’s newsroom.

“He inspired so many by speaking openly about his struggles,” wrote one social media user after news of his death broke. “Kimani showed that even those who seem strong are fighting silent battles.”

From Rising Star to Public Struggle

A graduate of the University of London, Kimani held a Master’s degree in Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict. His academic brilliance matched his on-air talent. After starting at Nation Media Group, he rose quickly through the ranks at Royal Media Services, contributing to Citizen TV, Inooro FM, and Hot 96.

But in 2020, his promising career was derailed after he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. In later interviews, Kimani described how the illness fractured his life. “I fell ill in 2020… I’ve lost so many friends along the journey. People got tired of me,” he admitted.

He spent time in and out of treatment, including stints at Mathari Mental Hospital and the Mombasa Women Empowerment Network Rescue Centre. Despite these setbacks, he occasionally resurfaced online — reflective, hopeful, and advocating for others facing similar struggles.

A Family’s Pain and Love

Kimani’s family has spoken openly about his illness, a move that helped humanise his story for many Kenyans. His sister, Wanjiku Mbugua, once described him as “very prayerful and close to the family,” adding, “It was painful to watch him struggle.”

Their father confirmed his diagnosis publicly, expressing gratitude for the Kenyans who offered financial and emotional support during Kimani’s treatment. Among them were former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and comedian Oga Obinna, who both rallied for his recovery.

A Legacy Larger Than Life

Though his story ended too soon, Kimani’s openness changed how many Kenyans think about mental health. For some, he became a symbol of vulnerability and resilience — a young man unafraid to bare his wounds before a society that often looks away.

“Kimani Mbugua’s life reminds us how deeply mental illness affects even the most talented among us,” one post read. “Kenya has lost a star.”

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.