Reggae entertainer Jahmby Koikai dies, days after appealing for help
Jahmby Koikai, a renowned Kenyan reggae artist and endometriosis advocate, has passed on.
Philiph Etale, the ODM director of communications, shared the news on his official X account, as he mourned her of the ‘mastery of Maragoli language.’
“I am gutted beyond expressions. Fare thee well my friend, sister and just best friend Fyah Mummah Jahmby Koikai.
That beautiful smile, the phone calls we had talking about many things including our days at KBC back in the day, your mastery of Maragoli language and the jolly moments you shared with those you knew. You had a big family, just a big one… go well my friend,” he mourned.
Few days ago, Jahmby reached out to for help from the online community revealing she had been admitted to Nairobi Hospital for an undisclosed illness.
Koikai, on her Instagram stories, revealed the need for blood and appealed to anyone who could help her.
“Hi fam, I’m currently admitted at the Pioneer Ward Nairobi Hospital and I kindly require Blood O positive. Kindly asking for blood donors for Mary Njambi Koikai,” Njambi wrote on her Instagram stories.
Jahmby has previously been affected by a chronic condition known as endometriosis which she has battled since she was age 13.
Endometriosis is a painful disorder where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain and complications.
Her condition worsened in 2015 when she experienced a series of pneumothoraces (collapsed lungs) caused by thoracic endometriosis, a rare manifestation of the disease.
This led to numerous surgeries and prolonged hospital stays. The medical treatments available in Kenya were insufficient, prompting Koikai to seek specialised care abroad.
Jahmby battle with endometriosis transformed her into a fierce advocate for women’s health. She courageously shared her journey on social media, detailing her struggles, treatments, and the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness.
In 2017, Koikai launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for her treatment in the United States.
The overwhelming support from friends, fans, and well-wishers enabled her to undergo multiple surgeries and receive the care she desperately needed.
Rest in peace Jahmby, Our sincere condolences to the family!
