Kennedy Zziwa: A celebrity’s addiction survival tale

Kennedy Zziwa’s Liteside

Any three things we don’t know about you?

I am an honest person because I like to keep my word which most people don’t do. I also crave originality to the extent that even in the process of hiring employees, I don’t look into the best but one who can come up with something different.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

I have a cat named Talice Nazziwa that makes me happy and just watching her play makes a good day; only pet lovers can understand that feeling. I also derive my happiness from seeing others happy. For instance every Monday which is my day off from work, I visit Butabika Hospital to encourage other patients because I noticed that it also helps to learn from those who have treaded the same journey. Seeing others sober; especially those that quit before me also makes me happy.

What is your greatest fear?

Failure is my biggest fear. I am a risk taker but when I know that I cannot win or excel in something, I cannot take it on to avoid failure.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

My obsession with anything; for instance when I fall in love or hate something, I get obsessed either way and it makes other people uncomfortable.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Slow people in thinking and action.

Which living person do you most admire?

I see a role model in JW Katende Ssembajjwe. When I was younger, I witnessed everything he did as flawless; from his home to work. I still admire him.

What is your greatest extravagance?

I am not a spendthrift but I love perfumes and travelling.

What is the greatest thing you have ever done?

Choosing to become a hair stylist despite being a graduate of computer science. It is a big step that has eventually worked out for me. I also never thought that I would quit drinking because when I went into rehab, my intention was to quit drugs not alcohol. But two weeks into the process, I chose to quit drinking as well which has worked for me.

What is your current state of mind?

I am happy

What does being powerful mean to you?

Being powerful comes with influence and the ability to make people do what you say without coercion.

On what occasion do you lie?

In the past, I would lie to service my addiction.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

None.

Which living person do you most despise?

Anyone with so much hate or negative energy; I also don’t keep them around me.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Keeping his word and treating a woman right .

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

Appreciating others and being a shock absorber of a family.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

My mother is my greatest love.

When and where were you happiest?

On July 13th, when I chose to get off drugs is the reason I am still smiling to date. I was also happy taking my first flight to Liberia. The days I work on a client and witness them smile or credit my services are filled with great joy.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

My feet nails are not as pretty as my fingers but it’s not a big deal.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Getting off drugs.

Where would you most like to live?

Uganda is my favourite place in terms of the weather and food so I love to be here.

What is your most treasured possession?

I am a materialistic person.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

Physical violence which can be domestic or mob justice is the worst pain that somebody can go through. Most times, violence is beyond individual control. Other things like poverty are just part of life that pushes us to look for solutions.

What is your favorite occupation?

Doing hair.

What do you most value in your friends?

My circle of friends has dramatically reduced but I treasure the loyalty of friends who were there during my time of using of drugs and even after.

Who are your favorite writers?

Jackie Collins is an interesting writer because her stories relate a lot to the my life of drugs and alcohol .

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Martin Luther King Junior managed to stand up for his rights despite the fear and challenges of the time.

Who are your heroes in real life?

My mother Harriet Nazziwa has done a lot for me, including risking.

What is your greatest regret?

Doing drugs is not something I regret because I consider it as an experience that has taught me a lot. I however regret opening up too much only to end up being disappointed by some people.

How would you like to die?

I don’t mind the process but prefer a clean body.

What is your motto?

Do unto others what you want to be done to you.