There is still so much life ahead: Ziya Africa reflects on difficult year
By Trizer Lijondo, September 30, 2026Kenyan content creator Ziya Africa has reflected on a difficult period in his life, sharing how much has changed since he was struggling with money, work, relationships and uncertainty a year ago.
In a post shared on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Ziya looked back at the same date last year, when he had recently sold his car and was living in a small apartment in Ruaka.
Difficult period
Ziya said the months leading up to that moment had been a “storm”, leaving him wondering how he would get himself out of the situation.
He recalled being consumed by worries about debts, bills and everything that felt like it was falling apart.
A year later, Ziya said he is living in a different city and country, with a quieter and more peaceful life.
“I’m debt-free. My bills are paid. My life is moving again,” he wrote.
He described being able to wake up without immediately worrying about who he owes or which bill needs to be paid as one of the greatest luxuries he has experienced.
He reflects on letting go
Ziya said the things that once kept him worried have now become memories, adding that some painful experiences were unfair and things he would never choose to go through again.
However, he has also learned that losing something does not necessarily mean losing yourself.
According to Ziya, some connections ending made room for the community he has around him now, while certain versions of his life had to end because he no longer belonged there.
He also said he has had to release resentment over things that happened to him.
“I could spend years standing at the scene of what happened to me, or I could come home to myself,” he said.
Ziya Africa on accepting support
Ziya revealed that while last year taught him how to ask for help, this year has taught him how to receive it.
He said he once viewed kindness as creating a debt, but has gradually learned that some people genuinely want to see him well.
Ziya urged anyone facing a difficult period to give themselves time, ask for help and avoid abandoning themselves because of fear of disappointing others.
He has now found new friends, community and peace, saying he intends to live more quietly, privately and closer to himself.
“There is still so much life ahead of you. Go live it,” Ziya concluded.