She was once the pride of the nation. She became the first African woman to hold an international title when she beat Ugandan Fiona Tugume to take the vacant WIBF middleweight title. After several years in the boxing industry, the unsung hero developed a mental illness and could no longer continue with boxing.

With the help of well wishers, Conje was taken to Mathare Mental Hospital and was later discharged.  But nothing changed, she was forced to go back to the village where she is said to be languishing in abject poverty. The heroine has been reduced to a beggar, roaming the streets of Yala town and searching up for food in garbage bins.

Who will save our heroes?

Conjestina's elder brother Peter Odhiambo passed on earlier this week, and we are yet to see what the government will do to the family of the female boxer.

Most of of our heroes and heroines such as those who fought for independence, actors; Mzee Ojwang, sports personalities; Maurice Odumbe, Conjestina have been neglected by the government despite President Uhuru's promise to help them. Although we only know of some, there are many who are afraid to come out, the likes of the football legend Joe Kadenge, who at a point made Kenya proud.

The question remains Who will save our heroes? We have a better government that is capable of helping them, but no one knows what's going on.