Kenyan rapper Wangechi Waweru recently marked the 10-year anniversary of the tragic accident that claimed the life of her best friend Tiona Lyssa. The accident, which also involved influencer Natalie Tewa still affects the musician even today.
“This weekend officially marks 10 years since my life was completely altered so it’s been a lot of reflecting and internalizing these past two days,” Wangechi wrote.
“I do not want to say too much, maybe one day I’ll write a book. One thing is for sure, the body always keeps score, so I’m glad I’m taking good care of it nowadays ’cause it carries all the trauma even when you don’t think it does.”
Wangechi also honored the memory of her late best friend.
“And to @tionnalyssa, missing you still feels the same as the first day. May your soul forever rest in peace till we meet again,” she concluded.
The Tragic Accident
On the early morning of September 14, 2014, Wangechi, Tiona Lyssa, and Natalie Tewa were driving along James Gichuru Road in Nairobi when their car was involved in a serious accident.
The impact was devastating, leaving Wangechi and Natalie in critical condition.
Despite being rushed to the hospital and placed in the ICU, Tiona sadly did not survive her injuries.
Wangechi has spoken about how the accident affected her both physically and mentally.
In previous interviews, she explained that she could barely remember the events of that night. “I cannot remember much about the night. I can only trace the events through two people’s accounts,” she once shared.
Wangechi also denied rumors that alcohol was involved, especially since the night before, the trio had attended a dinner party.
Despite the trauma, Wangechi has pushed through with the support of her family and friends. Wangechi was so affected by the accident, that she only returned to the studio a year later to work on new music.
Reflecting on the last decade, Wangechi is hopeful as she continues her recovery journey: “Ten years on my second life, hopefully, I can accomplish 10 more.“
By Vivian K.