Former Boxing Champion Conjestina Achieng Returns to Streets Despite Rehabilitation Efforts
Nairobi, 5 May 2026
Kenya’s once-celebrated female boxing champion has been spotted asking for money on Nairobi streets, reigniting concerns about athlete welfare and mental health support. Despite previous rehabilitation funded by former Governor Mike Sonko, Achieng claims abandonment, though Sonko denies this, citing family interference in her treatment since December 2025. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by retired athletes struggling with mental health issues and the complexities of providing sustainable support for vulnerable sports stars in Kenya.
Viral Video Sparks Public Outcry
A distressing video showing Conjestina Achieng asking for KSh 100 on the streets of Yala has circulated widely across social media platforms, generating significant public concern [1]. In the footage, Achieng claims that former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko ‘told me to go away’ and states she is now ‘just at home near Yala Resort’ [1]. The video has prompted mixed reactions online, with many Kenyans expressing worry about her well-being and calling for renewed support for the former boxing champion [1]. Social media users have questioned the circumstances surrounding her return to the streets, with some directly blaming government inaction for allowing such a situation to persist despite Achieng’s previous contributions to Kenyan sport [1].
Sonko Denies Abandonment Claims
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has categorically denied claims that he abandoned Conjestina Achieng, describing the viral video as ‘painful to watch’ and insisting he has been ‘unfairly accused of abandoning the former star’ [2][3]. In his defence, Sonko explained that the last time he saw Achieng was in December 2025 when her family came for her with filmmakers, and she has not been returned to his care since then [2][3]. The former governor pointed to repeated interruptions in Achieng’s treatment as the primary issue, stating that ‘every time she starts to stabilise under structured care, she is taken away’ [3]. Sonko emphasised that when these interruptions occur, ‘everything falls apart again’, highlighting the cyclical nature of Achieng’s struggles [3].
Treatment History and Family Intervention
Achieng had previously been receiving treatment at the Mombasa Women Rehabilitation Empowerment Centre for addiction and mental health challenges, with Sonko’s financial support [1]. The former governor revealed he had previously provided comprehensive assistance, including ‘facilitation, money, everything’ to support Achieng and her family [3]. However, Sonko expressed frustration over what he described as a recurring pattern, explaining that ‘whenever she is with us, she gets better. But when she leaves, things fall apart. That is the painful truth’ [3]. The situation became more complex when family members intervened in December 2025, taking Achieng away from the structured care environment [2][3].
Future Support Uncertain
In a significant development, Sonko has declared he will no longer take Achieng back under his care, stating firmly: ‘This time, I will not take her back. Let the family take responsibility and understand why we insisted on proper care’ [3]. The former governor has called for the family to assume full responsibility for Achieng’s well-being going forward, whilst maintaining that consistent supervision and structured support are essential for her recovery [3]. Despite the controversy, Sonko has urged Kenyans to continue praying for the former boxing champion and promised that more details would be shared later [3]. The situation has intensified calls for a coordinated and sustainable approach to supporting Achieng, who remains one of Kenya’s most celebrated former sports figures [3].