What began as a routine visit to collect rent in 2007 turned into a life-altering tragedy for Martin Kimani, a Nairobi landlord whose sight was permanently affected following an alleged attack by a tenant.
Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Kimani recounted the events that changed his life forever and left him struggling to adapt to a new reality.
At the time, Kimani worked as a property manager, overseeing several residential apartments in Nairobi. His duties included collecting rent, drafting tenancy agreements and resolving disputes between landlords and tenants.
One day, an elderly woman approached him seeking help with a tenant who had allegedly failed to pay rent for several months. According to Kimani, the tenant had accumulated arrears amounting to KSh 50,000.
To resolve the matter, Kimani drafted an agreement that would allow the tenant to continue paying monthly rent while gradually clearing the outstanding debt. The arrangement initially appeared successful, and for several months, payments were made as agreed.
However, things took an unexpected turn in September 2007.
Kimani recalled that the tenant, identified as Rodgers, requested that he personally visit the house to collect a cheque instead of sending one of the usual messengers.
Believing it was a normal request, he agreed.
“I didn’t think anything was wrong, so I made my way to his house in the evening. After entering, I first went straight to read the water meter and electricity bill,” Kimani said.
What happened next, he claims, changed the course of his life.
Although details of the alleged attack remain painful to recount, Kimani said he sustained serious injuries that ultimately left him visually impaired. The incident marked the beginning of a difficult journey filled with medical treatment, emotional struggles and major lifestyle adjustments.
Despite the challenges, he says one person never left his side.
Kimani praised his wife for standing by him throughout his recovery and helping him rebuild his life after the devastating incident. He described her support as a source of strength during moments when he felt overwhelmed by the loss of his independence.
Over the years, he has learned to navigate life with limited vision, though he admits there are things he still misses deeply.
Among them is the ability to move around freely and carry out daily tasks without assistance.
Today, Kimani hopes his story will serve as a reminder of how quickly life can change. While the physical and emotional scars remain, he continues to focus on the support of his family and the determination that has helped him keep moving forward despite immense hardship.