Kenyans come out to help Conje

Boxer Congestina Achieng [Photo: Standard]

By Jelimo Chelagat

Members of the public are being rallied to help boxer Congestina Achieng following media reports of her looming eviction and illness.

The top boxer who rose to continental fame and won accolades for the country has been struggling with a mental illness that has rendered her incapable of raising money to cater for her rent and basic needs.

Conjestina, who is currently living under the care of her younger sister, had a four months rent arrears in a low-income Nairobi estate.

Her living conditions spurred top celebrities among them Shaffie Weru, Churchill, Jimmy Gait and Nonini to launch a campaign to help the boxer and mother of one.

Genge musician Nonini lead the way by clearing her rent arrears and paying for an additional month. Comedian Daniel Ndambuki followed suit by committing on social media to pay her rent for a whole year. 

Numerous celebrities and Pulse Magazine are rallying fans of ‘Conje’ to contribute to fund for her treatment in the Restore Conjestina Campaign. Orange has provided paybill number 222222 where well-wishers can send their contributions.

Congestina, referred to as “Hands of stone” in boxing circles, caught media headlines in 2002 when she beat champion Naomi Wanjiku. The middleweight boxer went on to build an illustrious boxing career, which placed Kenya on the map in women’s boxing.

In January last year Conjestina was admitted to Mathare Mental Hospital where she was treated and subsequently released.