Former The Real Househelps of Kawangware actor Onyi has begun a three-month rehabilitation programme in Mombasa after musician and former Starehe MP Charles Njagua Kanyi, popularly known as Jaguar, intervened to help him get back on his feet.
The development follows a public appeal by Onyi, who asked Jaguar to help him secure employment or start a business to support himself and his children.
His plea attracted attention online, with his family expressing concern about his well-being and seeking help to improve his situation.
In a video circulating online, Onyi speaks to Jaguar over the phone as the former MP explains how he arranged the rehabilitation programme through the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
Jaguar says he learnt about the actor’s situation and contacted NACADA’s chief executive officer, who agreed to facilitate the programme.
“Niliskia story yako nikapigia CEO wa NACADA wakaitia tufanye pamoja. Upelekwe rehab, wakuangalie for three months,” Jaguar says in the video.
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He urges Onyi to take the opportunity seriously, promising to visit him during his stay and cater for some of his shopping needs.
Jaguar also says he is working with Onyi’s family to explore options for his future after rehabilitation, including a possible return to acting or another income-generating venture.
He emphasises the need for the actor to have a sustainable plan to provide for himself and his children once he leaves the facility.
Onyi, in response, promises to change and assures Jaguar that he will not disappoint those supporting him.
Jaguar encourages him to remain committed to the programme, saying Kenyans would be happy to see him turn his life around.
The intervention comes after a period of financial difficulties for Onyi, who previously spoke about losing his livelihood when the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the entertainment industry and The Real Househelps of Kawangware stopped airing.
The loss of a steady income reportedly left him struggling to find stable employment and provide for his family.
Before Jaguar’s intervention, Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service Geoffrey Mosiria had also offered to facilitate medical attention, psychosocial support or rehabilitation services, depending on Onyi’s needs.