Veteran Kenyan actor and comedian Matayo Keya, famously known as Alphonse Makokha Makwacha from the popular show Vioja Mahakamani, shared the heartbreaking story of his late wife Purity Wambui’s battle with breast cancer.
Wambui fought the disease for nearly two decades before it ultimately claimed her life.
Makokha revealed that Wambui’s condition took a severe turn about four months ago when doctors discovered that the cancer had metastasized to other parts of her body, including her spine.
“It’s been a long time, almost four months. I used to take him to the hospital while he recovers, and he comes back to stay if he hasn’t recovered,” he recounted in an emotional and candid interview with Tuko Kenya, highlighting the grueling and continuous battle they faced.
“The problem is breast cancer. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she was going to undergo chemotherapy. There are lumps that were being removed from the breast. She is a hero. She has had the disease for almost 18 years,” Makokha shared, expressing deep admiration for his late wife’s resilience.
Despite the relentless nature of the disease, Makokha tried his best to provide for Wambui’s medical needs. He admitted that the financial and psychological toll was immense.
“It has affected me financially, psychologically as well because I could not tell people what was going on. It affected me to be honest, I couldn’t be strong. But if you see me, I am very happy,” he said, showing his strength and ability to maintain a positive exterior amidst the turmoil.
Makokha’s beloved wife passed away at home under the care of their daughter while he was at work.
“I was going to work. I had left my daughter and told her to look after her mother, I am going to earn a living,” he recalled.
The devastating news was first shared with fellow actor Hiram Mungai, also known as Ondiek Nyuka Kwota, who compassionately informed Makokha.
Reflecting on that moment, Makokha said, “I cried for about two hours. I was driving the car, he (Ondiek) took the wheel and drove. I said because it has been done, let’s continue the journey. I just went to work as usual. That day we were going to sleep but I didn’t sleep, I had to go back. God gave me strength and I took them home safely, I also arrived home safely.”
The night he returned home was particularly harrowing, filled with grief and tears.
Makokha reminisced about the little things he already misses about his wife, especially the sounds she made around the house.
“It hurts, it hurts. It’s painful because I will no longer have my kitchen nearby, which I used to love,” he said, his words filled with sorrow.
Makokha’s story is a poignant reminder of the personal battles faced by many, even those who bring joy and laughter to others.
His strength and openness about his wife’s struggle with breast cancer provide a touching tribute to her memory and highlight the profound impact of such a loss on a family.
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