NJAMBI KOIKAI: QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE FALLEN ENDO WARRIOR
Kenya is mourning the loss of former radio host Mary Njambi ‘Jahmby’ Koikai, affectionately known as Fyah Mummah Jahmby. The reggae enthusiast passed away after a long struggle with endometriosis at the Nairobi Hospital on Monday, May 9 at around 9 p.m.
This was surprising to many Kenyans condsidering had appealed to wellwishers to donate blood the previous weekend.
This came as a surprise to many Kenyans, considering she had appealed for blood while at the hospital the previous weekend. She also conversed with DJ Double Trouble, during which Njambi, speaking in a low, unenergetic voice, optimistically assured that everything would be well..
“We are praying for you to get well, Jah Guidance” the DJ concluded their brief conversation. And to which the Fyah Mummah eexpressed gratitude.
Later, he shared that after their last conversation, she was moved to th High Dependency Unit (HDU) and then to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). But sadly, the reggae MC passed away.
Childhood
The Fyah Mummah Jahmby was raised by her mother and grandmother, who they influenced her strength and resilience. Her grandmother, who had stage IV pancreatic cancer passed away in 2016.
Njambi is survived by her mother and a younger sister, whom she called her “tower of strength.”
Education
Njambi’s educational journey was fraught with challenges due to endometriosis. She was expelled from four schools but persevered with the help of her mentor, Mrs. Meynink.
Despite having to retake exams, she completed her O-levels and A-levels. She later attended the United States International University (USIU), earning a degree in International Relations after eight years, a testament to her determination despite ongoing health issues.
Career
Njambi’s vibrant personality shone through her career as a reggae show host on Metro FM and QFM. After a hiatus, she returned to host the ‘Trace Na Doba’ show on Trace Radio.
She also organized performances with her band, Earthzone.
After being fired from QFM, she continued her work, performing at the KICC in 2020 despite severe health challenges.
Through her company, Street Empire Entertainment, she organized numerous gigs, further cementing her influence in the music industry.
First Manager of Sauti Sol
Njambi was the first ever manager of popular Kenyan boy band Sol.
They mourned her passing, acknowledging her significant role: “Forever in our hearts. @jahmbykoikai was our first ever manager. Played a big part in our early stages as a band. The industry has lost a gem. The country has lost a warrior. The heavens have gained an angel. Rest in Power. Your spirit lives on forever!”
Endometriosis Struggle
Njambi’s battle with endometriosis began at the age of 13, And this led to 21 surgeries in the U.S. in 2018.
“Endometriosis is tissue similar to the lining of the uterus growing on other organs. In simple terms, ni wakati tunapopata hedhi, ama periods, we shed the lining of the uterus. Unfortunately, with Endometriosis that lining grows on other parts of the body.” Njambi Koikai explained the condition.
“In my case that lining grew on my lungs, causing my lungs to collapse every month and countless number of surgeries. It took me 17 years to get a diagnosis.”
She highlighted the severe consequences of late diagnosis and inadequate treatment in Kenya:
“The damage caused due to late diagnosis and lack of treatment in our country. After fundraising for specialized treatment, the extent of the disease had spread to my teeth, heart, appendix and affected my spine causing my organs to shift to the left. The adverse effects of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis cause infertility.”
Despite these challenges, she became a vocal advocate for awareness, sharing her journey to help others understand the condition. Njambi was known as an Endo warrior and a Thoracic Endometriosis survivor.
Natalie Githinji, is another media personality who opened up about endometriosis, just like Njambi Koikai.
Advocacy
Recently, during President Ruto’s visit to the US, Njambi urged him to prioritize health investments. “Atlanta, Georgia is a dream city for every young girl and woman who has ever battled this horrific disease called Endometriosis. Therein lies a centre dedicated to restoring the lives of young girls and women who are crippled by this disease,” she said.
She also addressed the stigma surrounding menstrual health: “1 in 10 women are battling Endometriosis worldwide. The numbers are staggering. Due to our traditions and taboos, young girls and women are shamed to believe that period pain is normal.”
Legacy
Njambi leaves behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and an indomitable spirit. She will be remembered not only as a beloved media personality and reggae advocate but also as a relentless fighter against endometriosis
By Vivian K.
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