This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
Published on July 17, 2019, Linda Nyangweso, a popular Kiss 100 radio host, has spoken out about her long-standing struggles with body shaming and weight insecurities.
Ms. Nyangweso revealed in an interview with BBC Africa that she has been grappling with insecurities about her body since before she became a public figure. She shared that she would often eat in secret, fearing that people would judge her for her weight.
She recalled a particularly hurtful comment she received after posting a photo on social media while on holiday with her family. The comment suggested that she should wear 'garbage bags' instead of her clothes.
Ms. Nyangweso also shared the meanest comment she has ever received, which targeted her child, stating that she had no right to have a child due to her appearance.
She revealed that she had even contemplated suicide, saying, 'The only reason I didn’t go through with the suicide was because I worried my mom won’t find a coffin that would fit me.'
Despite the challenges she faces, Ms. Nyangweso expressed gratitude for her husband, who remains supportive and unaware of the hurtful comments directed at her.
She offered words of advice to those who may be struggling with online bullying, saying, 'If I was to sit down with a bully, I would show kindness, because that is what I think is lacking so much in this space we are in.'
