Former State House spokesperson Kanze Dena recently opened up about her past struggles with alcohol, sharing a story that led to her decision to quit drinking.
In a candid interview with Parents Magazine, the mother of two recounted the worst advice she ever received from a friend and how it changed her life.
Kanze Dena, now 44, revealed that she used to enjoy drinking beer before she got saved. After completing high school, she started working as a waitress at a restaurant in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). One day, after leaving work, she encountered heavy traffic. A friend suggested they wait out the traffic at a club in the CBD, leading to an unexpected night of drinking.
“Nilikunywa pilsner ya kwanza, ya pili, tatu. Tukajipata tumekanyaga crate,” Kanze recounted. (“I had the first Pilsner, then the second, the third. We ended up stepping on the crate.”) She admitted that beer used to be her preferred drink, influenced by its popular TV advert at the time.
However, Kanze’s life took a significant turn when she decided to embrace faith. “But I don’t drink anymore. That used to be my brand. Mungu alinikomboa (God redeemed me). Thank you, Jesus,” she shared.
Kanze Dena’s journey to sobriety and faith is inspiring, particularly as she balances her roles as a mother and public figure. Recently, she celebrated her firstborn son, Amani, turning 18. Reflecting on his birth in 2006, she spoke about how he changed her life and the positive impact he has had on their blended family. Amani’s supportive words and maturity have made their co-parenting journey smoother.
As Amani transitioned into adulthood, Kanze allowed him to join social media, with a heartfelt reminder to always let Christ guide him.
By Vivian K.