Former Kenya Sevens ace finds help after addiction pushes him to the streets
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Reading Time: 4min | Mon. 29.06.26. | 17:11
The intervention culminates in Moseti being admitted to a rehabilitation centre, offering hope that his road to recovery may finally begin
Former Kenya Sevens and Kenya Simbas international Isaiah Ken Moseti has opened up about the painful reality of his life after rugby, with a heartbreaking video showing the once-celebrated star living on the streets of Nairobi as he battles addiction.
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A video shared by The Face Foundation on Instagram has brought Moseti's struggles into the spotlight, revealing the harsh circumstances that have befallen one of Kenya's most gifted rugby players.
In the emotional footage, the former KCB Rugby utility-back is seen barefoot on the streets, his cracked feet reflecting the difficult journey he has endured since leaving the game.
The foundation's presenter, Sifa Favor, steps in to help Moseti, providing him with clean clothes and shoes before taking him shopping for essential household items, including a mattress and duvet.
The intervention culminates in Moseti being admitted to a rehabilitation centre, offering hope that his road to recovery may finally begin.
The scenes mark a dramatic fall from grace for a player who once dazzled fans in the colours of Kenya 7s, Kenya Simbas, and KCB Rugby.
During his playing career, Moseti established himself as one of the country's most versatile backs, capable of operating at scrum-half, fly-half, and centre. He made his Shujaa debut at the 2011 Dubai Sevens before earning a call-up to the Kenya Simbas in 2014.
His club career was equally impressive, helping KCB win three consecutive Kenya Cup titles after joining the Ruaraka-based side in 2013.
He retired during the 2019/20 Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) season, ending a seven-year stay with the Bankers, although he was later linked with a comeback at Impala in 2021.
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Away from the field, however, life took a devastating turn.
In a candid interview, the 36-year-old admitted that addiction has left him feeling as though he has lost everything and pleaded for help before his situation deteriorates further.
"I feel wasted because of drugs, and if it remains this way, it might get worse, and it will endanger my life," Moseti admitted to Scrummage Africa.
Reflecting on life after rugby, he said he never imagined the transition from professional sport would be so difficult.
"I never thought it would come to this. My life in general at the moment is a bit challenging. I want to be very honest, the transition from the game for me wasn't the best.
Rugby was my life, but life took a turn I never expected. I can say I have failed, I made bad decisions at some point, and I regret,” he continued.
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Moseti described how financial hardship after leaving rugby, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, pushed him into a downward spiral.
"COVID-19 is part of the reason I'm struggling in life. When it came, everything on my end stopped, and it's hell at the moment. I find it hard to make ends meet. I've been moving from place to place looking for opportunities, but it's all in vain," he explained.
Despite his struggles, the former international insists he is not seeking sympathy but an opportunity to rebuild his life.
"I've lost it all, but I want to rebuild. My playing time was called off prematurely. It's very saddening for me, though there are fans who have been supportive, and I appreciate it.
"I need a second chance in life. If given, I'll use the platform to make amends and show people that you can fall, but that doesn't mean you should remain down.
"I have made mistakes as a young man. I apologise to anyone I've wronged. I have learned the hard way, and I think it's enough."
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Moseti hopes his experiences can one day become a lesson for the next generation. A World Rugby Level One coaching certificate holder who has previously coached at Zetech University and Muhuri Muchiri Secondary School, he dreams of returning to rugby, not only to play one final season but also to mentor young players.
"I know I've hurt myself and those who believed in me, but I'm ready to change. I want a chance to get back to the game and play one more season as I continue coaching and mentoring kids, because I want them to follow the right path, not only in rugby but also in education, and how they should invest. I want to give back to society even if it's volunteering,” he said.
The intervention by The Face Foundation has now given Moseti a fresh opportunity to begin that journey, with many within the rugby fraternity hoping one of Kenya's brightest talents can overcome his battles and write a new chapter beyond the game.
