Actress Winfred Bwire Ndubi passed away on September 5, 2024, while undergoing treatment in Turkey after a long and brave battle with metastatic breast cancer. And her body arrived in Kenya on September 8 in reparation for burial.
Before undergoing treatment in Turkey, she appealed for a Ksh7 million fundraiser to cover the costs of her medical care abroad, and even in her final days, she fought with everything she had.
Childhood and Education
Born in the 1980s, Bwire was a gifted and multi-talented artist. She was known for her work as an actor, scriptwriter, songwriter, singer, painter, and interior designer.
Bwire Ndubi also built a career as a professional baker, businesswoman, and interior designer, all while being a devoted mother.
Her creativity was evident in every role she took on, and she pursued a degree in Industrial Fine Art and Design from Makerere University, which fueled her passion for the arts.
Bwire Ndubi Acting Career
Bwire Ndubi began her professional acting career in 2014 with a role in the TV series Penzi on Raia TV. The role was a breakthrough moment for her.
And she went on to star in Kisasa, Tehanini on Maisha Magic East, and Kalimani Dynasty on KTN.
She became a household name in Kenya after her role as ‘Dida’ in the popular drama series Sultana on Citizen TV .
She was known not only for her talent but also for her dedication, discipline, and passion for her craft.
Cancer Diagnosis
In 2022, Bwire Ndubi was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This is a rare type of breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts.
At first, she didn’t think much of the swelling under her armpits, which she described as “just like any other period.”
She noted, “It started with the lymph nodes under my armpits swelling up a bit and throbbing during my periods.”
When the swelling persisted, Bwire visited a doctor who diagnosed her with a general infection and prescribed medication. However, she continued to experience pain.
And “after three months my periods could come and go with the pain, but on my third period I felt the pain in my armpits linger even after my period had gone.”
At this point, Bwire Ndubi underwent further tests before the cancer was confirmed.
Her mother had survived cancer, so the fight against this illness was deeply personal for her.
She faced severe side effects from her treatments, at one time admitting that she experienced several of the over 41 different reactions to medication. But she never gave up.
Her doctors eventually advised her to stop the medication due to the complications, but Bwire continued to seek alternative treatments, always fighting to stay strong.
Even as she battled the disease, Bwire remained active in her career and in her public life.
She made several appeals for financial help, initially seeking Ksh7 million and later Ksh5 million to continue her treatment in Turkey.
Marriage to Dan Sonko
Bwire Ndubi and actor Dan ‘Sonko’ Kinyanjui were traditionally married from 2018 to 2023.
And she took on the role of a stepmother to his two sons from his previous marriage.
The strain of her illness took a toll on their relationship, and they separated during her cancer treatment.
Tribute
Her passing has left a void in the hearts of many who admired her strength, resilience, and unbreakable spirit.
Bwire Ndubi will be remembered not only for her artistic contributions but for the courage she showed in her battle against cancer.
She was a fighter till the very end, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who face their own battles with bravery and determination.
By Vivian K.