Sironka Lioness: First day in Nairobi ended with me losing money gambling

Fast-rising female Afro-beat artiste Melanoi Sironka, popularly known as Sironka Lioness, may have been born in Nairobi, but she fell prey to the city cons.

Being born in the city did not give her the upper hand that a majority should expect. At the age of 10, she was left all on her own to explore the city.

“I was around 10 years old when my mother decided it was time I learnt to visit my grandmother, who lived in Gigiri. She drew me a map of the landmarks I should look out for,” she says.

Feeling like the ‘big girl’ she certainly wasn’t, she set out for an adventurous tour. “I packed my clothes. My mom gave me Sh200. I was so happy because I knew fare would cost me about Sh40 one way and grandma would foot for my fare back.”

As soon as she set foot in the CBD she felt hungry and settled on chips and soda, which set her back a cool Sh45.

“Outside the cafe, a gambling game was ongoing and it caught my attention. I saw a lady win Sh500 and she had only placed a Sh50 note. I was so sure I saw the cup that had the winning chance, and I was intrigued immediately.

I placed my first Sh50 bet, and was told to pick the ‘winning cup’ - after he shuffled three cups. In the first game I won Sh100,” she says.

This encouraged her to play more and she immediately waged more. Losing the next three trials. “I placed my last bet trying my luck. I lost it. At this point, I started crying irrationally telling the guy behind the game that I wanted my money back. I only had 15 bob left on me.”

This meant Sironka was five bob short of her fare money. Things didn’t get any better, and she had to leave, downtrodden and with a lesson she carries up to date.  

“I begged the conductor to let me ride with Sh15. I never told my grandma the ordeal but that was a lesson I carry to date. I have never gambled again.”