Conjestina ‘Iron Fists’ Achieng rusting away in the village
Former female boxing champion Conjestina Achieng continues to waste away in western Kenya, in what is turning out to be arguably Kenya’s most embarrassing grace-to-grass tale in recent times.
The once proud epitome of Kenyan boxing has been reduced to a life of want and suffering in her rural home, the result of poor management of the boxer’s brand during her hey days.
Her woes are to a large extent due to a reported psychological illness that has afflicted her in the wake of retirement. Treating the illness has left her broke and forced her to relocate from Nairobi.
But even in her rural home, life seems to be tough for the boxer 38-year-old boxer and her immediate family.
EMACIATED FRAME
Her latest photos circulating on social media show an emaciated frame, a sharp contrast to the agile boxer who demolished enemies within minutes in boxing rings.
In her hey days, Conje – as she was popularly known – would make up to Sh800,000 in a single fight in Nairobi. Celebrities and politicians fell over each other just to accompany her to the ring during boxing matches.
In all fairness though, all efforts have been made to salvage Conjestina’s fortunes. Politicians have contributed generously in harambees. Social events have been held and proceeds channeled to support her. The government at one time offered to foot her her medical bill at the Mathari Hospital
All this however, is clearly not enough.
