Renowned Kenyan rapper Mejja has opened up about his decision to keep his personal relationships private, a choice shaped by a painful past breakup that plunged him into depression nearly three years ago. In a candid interview with Radio Maisha, Mejja revealed how his experiences have transformed his outlook on love and privacy.
Mejja’s decision to shield his romantic life from the public eye stems from the lessons learned during his previous relationship, which ended unexpectedly. He stated, “I learned my lesson. I stopped putting my girlfriend in the public eye. From my last relationship, I realized the value of privacy, and I can already see the positive change.” This revelation underscores a growing awareness among public figures about the impact of media scrutiny on personal relationships.
In a previous chat with prominent media personalities Jeff Koinange and Nick Odhiambo, Mejja humorously touched on the allure of toxic relationships, likening them to an addiction. “Toxic relationships are very addictive. You think you’re done, but then you relapse. Toxic women can cook so well, you try to leave but can’t!” His lighthearted take reveals a deeper truth about the complexities of love, where emotional ties can become entwined with both pleasure and pain.
Mejja’s past trauma is starkly apparent as he recounts the abrupt end of his marriage. “We hadn’t disagreed at all. In fact, we were happy,” he recalled, describing how a simple text from his wife, checking on his safety after a trip to Thika, turned into a life-altering moment. After reassuring her of his safe arrival, she abruptly told him to “move on with your life” and ceased all communication. That was the last interaction Mejja had with her, a shocking conclusion that triggered a year-long battle with depression.
The rapper candidly admitted that the journey to recovery was not straightforward. “It took me a year to get over it, but it still affects me today. I realized money can’t fix depression; my friends’ support system helped me heal.” His experience emphasizes the vital role of mental health support and the importance of community in overcoming personal crises.
At his lowest point, Mejja’s despair was so overwhelming that he sought solace in prayer hotlines advertised on the roadside. “I was completely stressed out,” he confessed, revealing the depths of his emotional struggle. Although he has since attempted to date again, he now recognizes the importance of paying attention to red flags, explaining, “I just can’t be patient anymore.”
Discussing the stigma surrounding men and mental health, Mejja revealed the difficulty he faced in opening up to friends. “It consumed me for a long time before I finally decided to share. I couldn’t imagine my child’s mother living with another man. In this career, you have to appear happy for your fans, so I would fake smiles during performances.” This internal conflict highlights the societal pressures that often prevent men from expressing vulnerability and seeking help.
At one juncture, Mejja’s despair even led him to contemplate suicide. “I felt like something was wrong with me. Fortunately, I had a friend who regularly visited and talked to me. Slowly, the suicidal thoughts disappeared, and I began to feel better.” This moment of clarity emphasizes the significance of supportive relationships in navigating through life’s darkest moments.
Today, Mejja stands as a testament to resilience, having transformed his pain into a powerful message about the importance of privacy, mental health, and the necessity of a supportive network. As he moves forward, Mejja continues to advocate for mental health awareness, reminding his fans and followers of the strength that lies in vulnerability and the healing power of friendship.
