Mosiria calls on govt to support artists struggling with addiction and mental health
By Paulette Mboga, September 8, 2026Nairobi County Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria has called on the government to set aside a budget to support Kenyan artists facing challenges such as addiction and mental health issues.
He made the call after visiting artist Maddox at a rehabilitation centre for addiction together with Toxic Lyrikali.
Mosiria said Maddox is currently receiving treatment after he rescued him from Mirema Drive, Roysambu, where he had been found sleeping at a dumpsite while battling drug addiction.
He explained that he had earlier asked Toxic Lyrikali to join him in visiting Maddox at the rehabilitation centre.
“Last week, I requested Toxic Lyrikali to join me in visiting Maddox at the Rapid Rehabilitation Centre for Addiction,” Mosiria said in a post on Instagram on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
Mosiria detailed that the visit was meant to give Maddox support as he continues with his treatment.
Mosiria said Toxic Lyrikali encouraged Maddox during the visit and reminded him that he could change his life. He said the artist also gave Maddox hope and encouraged him to do better after completing his treatment.
“Today, together with Toxic Lyrikali, we visited Maddox at the rehabilitation centre. Toxic encouraged him, gave him hope, and reminded him that he can turn his life around and do better after completing his treatment,” Mosiria said.
Mosiria calls for support for artists
Mosiria thanked Toxic Lyrikali for agreeing to stand with Maddox during what he described as a difficult journey. He said the visit showed support for a fellow artist going through treatment and a challenging period.
“I want to sincerely thank Toxic Lyrikali for agreeing to stand with his fellow artist during this difficult journey,” Mosiria said. He then used the visit to call for more support for artists facing different challenges.
Mosiria asked the government to consider creating a budget that would support artists who are doing well in the industry as well as those struggling with addiction and mental health issues. He said artists sacrifice a lot while entertaining people and have helped put Kenya on the African and global map.
“I also want to call upon the government to consider setting aside a budget to support Kenyan artists who are doing well in the industry, as well as those who are struggling with challenges such as addiction and mental health issues,” Mosiria said.
He proposed structured programs, health insurance and welfare initiatives to help artists access medical care when they face challenges.