Kenyan musician and entrepreneur Esther Akoth Kokeyo, popularly known as Akothee, has shared a candid reflection on her life journey. In a lengthy Facebook post, the singer looked back at her four decades of existence.
She detailed her 20 years of experience in business and 10 years in the entertainment industry. Her message focused on the heavy price of success and the lessons she has learnt about trust and power.
The Business of Lessons
Akothee has built a diverse career. She has worked with organisations, collaborated with the government, and established a school in her village. She has also dedicated time to charitable events within her community.
However, she admitted that her professional path was often hindered by her own choices.
"I have done business with friends and associates. I have invited strangers into my home. I trusted everyone who showed me a smile and a warm hug. I employed unqualified people, forgetting that business is not charity," she wrote.
"I gave my trust to people who later betrayed it," she shared.
A Battle With Mental Health
The entrepreneur revealed the deep personal struggles she faced behind the scenes. She spoke about the emotional exhaustion of dealing with unsupportive partners and self-centred men. These challenges often led to legal struggles.
Most significantly, she addressed her mental health. This internal battle was worsened by isolation. She watched her social circle shrink and felt abandoned by certain family members.
“I battled depression three different times. I lost the trust of some family members when they chose sides, and I was left to carry the blame alone. I watched my circle become smaller and smaller until I found myself alone in a huge house.”
Stepping Back From the Spotlight
Despite her fame, Akothee found that her accomplishments often brought negative attention. She felt her presence was seen as a threat by politicians. Every win she achieved was met with criticism and assumptions.
Eventually, even public gatherings became a source of stress. "When I realized I had to fight for a seat at funerals, I quietly stepped away from that too," she explained.
Reclaiming Power Through Solitude
Today, the singer is choosing a different path. She no longer seeks new friendships or relationships. She described her past mistakes not as failures, but as lessons that gave her massive experience in understanding people.
"The biggest mistake I made was handling myself carelessly," she admitted.
Her final message to her followers was about the importance of personal agency. "The day you take that power back is the day your healing truly begins," she concluded.
