Uhuru’s Niece Nana Gecaga Marks 21 Years Since Overcoming Alcohol Addiction

President Kenyatta's niece, Nana Gecaga has marked 21 years since she overcame alcohol addiction.

Nana, who is the CEO of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), described quitting alcohol as the biggest decision she made in her life.

“21 years ago today I made the biggest decision in my life which was to stop drinking. I just want to thank everyone who has been on this journey with me 21 years ago till today. Thank you for your support, encouragement, and love,” Nana said through Instagram on Sunday.

Nana does not shy away from sharing her story on how she struggled with alcoholism during her youthful years. In a past interview, she divulged that she used to consume a crate of beer and a bottle of hard liquor in one sitting.

Her penchant for booze, she said, killed her dream of becoming an athlete, having earned a place to represent Kenya in the 1996 Olympics.

“With that comes regret; my biggest regret is that it {alcoholism} derailed me from pursuing my dream in athletics, even after qualifying for the 1996 Summer Olympics – sprinting. Due to drinking, heavily at that time, I just said: ‘I had qualified for the Olympics, but did not go’."

" Now, when I look back, I say it was my time to do service. But, again, it is not about dwelling on it, but moving forward; and saying: ‘From there, what can I now do, especially now that I know better?’” she said.

Nana admits fighting alcoholism was her life's most difficult moment. "It definitely builds character because it takes a lot of strength to acknowledge that you have a problem, whatever it is. Getting out of it is something I am happy about because most people do not manage."