Kenyan actor William Okore, popularly known as Onyi from the comedy series The Real Househelps of Kawangware, has begun a three-month rehabilitation programme at a NACADA facility in Mombasa. His admission, facilitated with the support of musician and politician Charles Njagua, alias Jaguar, has renewed conversations about substance use, recovery and the importance of supporting people seeking treatment without subjecting them to public stigma.
Highlights
- Actor Onyi has been admitted to NACADA’s rehabilitation centre in Miritini, Mombasa, for three months.
- Musician and politician Jaguar helped facilitate his admission.
- NACADA CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa welcomed the actor’s decision to seek professional support.
- Onyi says he hopes to complete his recovery journey and return to entertaining his fans.
- NACADA is encouraging Kenyans to embrace rehabilitation and community-based recovery initiatives.
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Onyi Begins Three-Month Rehabilitation Programme
William Okore, the Kenyan entertainer widely recognised as Onyi from The Real Househelps of Kawangware, has been admitted to a rehabilitation facility operated by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
The actor began the three-month programme on Tuesday at the authority’s rehabilitation centre in Miritini, Mombasa, as he embarks on a treatment journey aimed at supporting his recovery.
His admission was facilitated by Charles Njagua, popularly known as Jaguar, who is a musician, politician and Commissioner in the Office of the Ombudsman. Jaguar previously served on the NACADA Board.
The development highlights the importance of making professional support accessible to people dealing with substance use challenges, including public figures who may face additional scrutiny because of their careers.
NACADA CEO Commends Actor for Seeking Help
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa welcomed Onyi’s decision to enter rehabilitation, describing it as an encouraging step towards recovery.
Omerikwa emphasised that substance use disorders are treatable health conditions and that seeking professional assistance should not be a source of embarrassment.
He also reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to supporting people undergoing rehabilitation, noting that recovery requires appropriate care, professional guidance and an environment in which individuals can rebuild their lives.
According to the CEO, NACADA’s rehabilitation facilities provide access to qualified professionals and evidence-based interventions designed to support people through treatment.
The authority hopes Onyi’s decision will encourage other Kenyans who may need similar assistance to seek help rather than remain silent because of fear of judgement.
Jaguar Stands by Onyi During Recovery Journey
Jaguar, who helped facilitate the actor’s admission, expressed support for Onyi as he begins the programme.
The musician described the actor as a talented entertainer whose work has brought laughter to Kenyan audiences over the years.
He also thanked NACADA for its role in providing rehabilitation services and urged the public to show understanding towards people experiencing substance use difficulties.
Jaguar noted that negative attitudes and public stigma can discourage individuals from seeking treatment, making compassion and encouragement important parts of the recovery process.
His involvement in facilitating Onyi’s admission has also drawn attention to the role that friends, families and other community members can play in helping people access professional care.
Onyi Speaks Out About His Fresh Start
Onyi expressed gratitude to NACADA, Jaguar and the people who have supported him as he begins the three-month programme.
The actor said he was determined to commit himself to the process, with hopes of returning healthier and resuming his entertainment career.
He also encouraged anyone facing similar struggles to recognise that asking for help is a valid step towards improving their circumstances.
His message underlines an important point about rehabilitation: recovery is a process that requires commitment, appropriate treatment and support from the people around an individual.
For Onyi, the coming months will provide an opportunity to focus on his treatment away from the demands of his public career.
NACADA Pushes for Community-Based Recovery
The actor’s admission comes as NACADA continues promoting approaches that make rehabilitation and recovery support more accessible to communities across Kenya.
The authority has recently validated its Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Guidelines, which focus on locally supported recovery initiatives, reducing stigma and strengthening access to care.
Community-based approaches can complement professional treatment by helping individuals reconnect with their families and communities while accessing ongoing support.
NACADA is encouraging Kenyans who need assistance with substance use challenges to explore the services available through its rehabilitation centres and community programmes.
Onyi’s journey also serves as a reminder that public recognition does not shield anyone from personal challenges and that seeking treatment should be met with dignity rather than ridicule.
As he begins his rehabilitation programme, the hope is that he will receive the support needed to work towards recovery and, when ready, reconnect with the fans who have followed his work over the years.
Recovery is not a sign of weakness; it is a step towards rebuilding. As Onyi begins this new chapter, his journey is a reminder that everyone deserves dignity, support and an opportunity to start again.
