Nandi Family Struggles After Son Returns From Australia Facing Alcohol Dependency

A family in Nandi County has faced financial loss and emotional strain after their son returned from Australia with alcohol dependency, while another family in Eldoret continues to search for a relative who has not been heard from since 2019.

In Nandi County, a family once marked their son’s departure to Australia with celebration at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Relatives and neighbours gathered to wish him well as he left for what they believed would be a life-changing opportunity. 

His parents sold part of their land to fund his travel and studies, expecting that his success would support the family in future. Several years later, his return brought a different outcome. Instead of completing his plans abroad, he came back struggling with alcoholism. 

His father sold additional land to cover the cost of rehabilitation. His mother described the situation as a painful reversal of their expectations, noting that the hopes they had placed in his journey had not been realised.

While some individuals achieve their goals abroad, others face challenges such as isolation, cultural adjustment, and personal difficulties. For families who invest significant resources, unsuccessful outcomes can lead to financial hardship and emotional distress.

In Eldoret, another family is dealing with uncertainty over a missing relative. Michael Kiplimo travelled to Australia in search of work and has not been in contact with his family since 2019. 

Although reports indicate he married while abroad, communication stopped completely in early 2025. His parents have appealed for information that could help locate him.