This archive report was first published on 7 August 2019.
On August 7, 1998, a bomb blast shook the nation, leaving a trail of destruction and loss in its wake. For Hellen Muthoni, the impact was personal. Her father, a well-known and respected figure in their village, was among the victims.
Speaking to Kikuyu Diaspora TV, Muthoni recalled the happy times before the blast. 'My father was very rich and well known in our village that even teachers feared us. We used to go [to school] in home clothes and no teacher would complain,' she said.
But life took a drastic turn when her father left the house one morning and never returned. The family was later informed of his tragic fate, and their world was turned upside down. Muthoni's mother fell into depression, and the family was forced to leave their home after her father's family chased them away.
With no other option, Muthoni and her younger brother were taken in by their grandmother, who was a staunch church member and a prophet. Despite the challenges they faced, Muthoni's grandmother played a significant role in shaping her faith and instilling in her a sense of responsibility.
As Muthoni navigated her new reality, she faced ridicule and bullying at school. She was forced to take on the responsibility of caring for her younger brother, and even learned how to give him a bath while still struggling to wash herself.
However, with the support of her grandmother and later her elder sister, Muthoni was able to turn her life around. She went on to pursue a career in music, mentored by Paul Mwai and James Wanyoike, and has since become a successful TV presenter.
Today, Muthoni is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. 'It is not over until you try, so make sure you do your best,' she advises.
