Jackline Mwende, the woman whose story drew widespread attention after she claimed her husband attacked her and cut off her hands due to her inability to bear him a child, has spoken out about the events leading up to the incident.
Mwende, who is now heavily pregnant, revealed that the father of her child is a close friend she had been dating before the alleged attack. She conceived about three days before the incident and has stated that she has no regrets about her actions, citing her deep-seated desire to have a child.
Background to the Attack ¶
Mwende's marriage to Stephen Ngila Nthenge had been childless, and she believes the attack may have been motivated by her husband's discovery of her affair with another man. She had been seen in public with this man a day before the attack, which occurred on July 24.
On the night of the attack, Mwende was assaulted with a panga, resulting in severe injuries to her head and hands, which ultimately led to the amputation of both hands.
Investigation and Aftermath ¶
Ngila, who has denied any involvement in the attack, was arrested and later released on a Sh200,000 bond for attempted murder. The case is ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for February 27.
Mwende's hospital bills and prosthetic care were covered by LG Electronics, which also facilitated her airlift overseas for specialized treatment.
Recently, a German organization, Merck, built Mwende a two-bedroom house in Kathama village through one of its projects, More than a Mother. The organization also set up a shop to support her upkeep.
Reflections and Current Situation ¶
Mwende has expressed remorse for her actions, acknowledging that she strayed from her marriage due to her desperation for a child. She is currently expecting a child, due at the end of February or beginning of March, and has thanked all well-wishers for their support during her recovery.
The recovered account cited reporting by Nairobi News,Nation.