Legendary Kenyan boxer Conjestina Achieng' rejected a donation of face masks from sports presenter Carol Radull who recently paid her a visit in Yala, Siaya County.
Radull shared photos from the visit on Tuesday, July 28 as she revealed how Conje, as she is popularly known, was doing.
"Unfortunately I also took masks for her and her family and Conje said they will not wear them as there is no need. My logic fell on deaf ears," Radull disclosed.
The boxer along with her family, however, welcomed foodstuffs and other supplies donated by Radull who was accompanied by her sister.
The troubled former champion has had stints in rehabilitation centres since falling into poverty and drug abuse after her glittering career.
Radull revealed that Conje constantly voiced her anger over being neglected by the country that adored her as she won various bouts.
In her hut, she has dedicated a section to her belts and shields representing the glory days when she was considered among Africa's finest pugilists.
Explaining why previous attempts to get Conje's life back on track by taking her to rehab might have failed, Radull noted that the boxer was constantly stuck at home alone with her thoughts.
"I am no medical expert; but I see little sense in taking someone to rehab for some time then returning them to the same challenging environment.
"In my layman's assessment; she is not mad but she does need more rehab to overcome her dependence on abusive substances. She also needs some counselling (anger management) But she then needs to be in an environment where her mind is kept busy; where her talent is being used; where she feels useful and appreciated," she asserted.
Photos of Conje quickly went viral and triggered an outpouring of emotions from many Kenyans who sought to support her.
Others questioned what the government was doing to ensure the welfare of legendary Kenyan sportsmen and women was secured.
Among them was rapper Octopizzo, real name Henry Ohanga, who claimed that the country cared more about rewarding political loyalty than taking care of its heroes.
"At times I feel this country doesn’t deserve our talents, Conjestina is and will always be a legend. Our sister Conje after representing this country worldwide can't even afford good medical health care," he noted.
Radull advised many Kenyans who sought to financially assist Conjestina not to send money as they worked on a long-term solution.
She explained her hope that Conje would be able to use her skills and knowledge of boxing for the good of the future of sport in Kenya; possibly as a trainer, mentor or referee.
