Nairobi Governor Sonko’s Daughter, Saumu Speaks on Being Depressed over Abusive Relationship

Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s eldest daughter, Saumu Mbuvi says an abusive relationship with the father of her daughter drove her into depression when she was only 21 years old. 

Saumu, who has been advising women to walk away from toxic relationships, took to Instagram to share her experience with former boyfriend Benson Gatu.

The 25-year-old said the situation was so dire that after they parted ways in 2017, she got depressed to a point of taking depression pills.

“Honestly, I’m not a relationship expert, all I was doing is research for some NGO…and I realized so many women are affected by this…
Let me use myself as an example, my first relationship I was only 21 young and naïve, thinking the relationship would lead to marriage. It totally damaged me and left me on depression pills for a while, the same fear of being judged is what I had until I choose myself and my child’s happiness over everything,” she wrote.

“Most women should know that if your kids see you physically abused all the time, all they will know is violence, it will damage them psychologically.”

She went on: “My second relationship at 23, at least with a bit of experience, anything that involved violence, was a no for me. I was stronger and didn’t care how many would criticize me, my health and happiness come first and that of my daughter.” 

“Most women are in toxic relationships mostly because of one thing. Fear of the Unknown, Fear of being Judged, Fear being Lonely, Fear of losing your partner to someone else. Fear of being called a single mother. Fear of taking care of bills alone” said Mbuvi.

She also advised young women against rushing into relationships and first focus on building themselves. 

“Love knows no religion; it’s what makes us whole time for. Life is too short, learn to put yourself first. To young girls don’t rush it, sometimes I say to myself I wish I knew better. I had options of going on with my studies but at a certain age you think you know everything, but you are wrong. Being so dependent on a person can also bring lack of respect, be street smart, hustle ni hustle, whether you are selling mitumba or handbags as long as you have something small for yourself.. with your own money no one can disrespect you."

The mother of one is currently dating Lamu Senator Anwar Loitiptip, who recently revealed plans to marry her.