Lydia Wanjiru reveals how she quit smoking
By Paulette Mboga, August 6, 2025Kenyan content creator and mental health advocate Lydia Wanjiru has revealed how she successfully quit smoking, encouraging her followers that it’s possible with the right mindset and discipline.
In a Q&A session on her Instagram stories on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Lydia responded to a follower who admitted they were struggling to stop smoking.
She says quitting was a personal decision and a daily commitment. When asked, “Lyd, how did you stop smoking? I’m really struggling with it,” Lydia responded with honesty and practical advice.
“I just decided that I’ll never smoke again. I made menthol and mint chewing gums your best friend,” she shared. She emphasised the importance of removing herself from triggers, adding, “I stayed away (cut off) from all the friends and acquaintances that smoked.”
For Lydia, quitting wasn’t just about avoiding cigarettes. She says it was a mental shift.
“It’s more of a mental struggle and small, small everyday decisions,” she wrote. She encouraged her audience to imagine a life-threatening scenario as motivation to stop, saying,
“Imagine if today you are diagnosed with a life-threatening disease, and to continue living, you have to stop smoking! You can do it!”
Lydia’s revelation adds her to the growing list of Kenyan celebrities who have publicly shared their journey to quitting smoking. In April 2025, celebrated Ugandan singer Jose Chameleone announced he had stopped smoking after a long battle with illness. The artist revealed that his decision was influenced by health scares that forced him to reevaluate his lifestyle.
Kenyan actor and comedian Omosh also made headlines recently after revealing that he had quit smoking and drinking. Omosh’s decision came during his recovery journey, and he stated that he was determined to rebuild his life and health after years of struggle.
Lydia Wanjiru’s story resonates deeply, especially with young people navigating similar struggles. Known for her openness and candid conversations around healing, self-awareness, and growth, Lydia has become a role model for many.
Her response serves as a reminder that even the smallest daily decisions can lead to powerful transformation.