Simon Kabu, CEO of Bonfire Adventures, has filed a defamation case against his estranged wife, Sarah Njoki, accusing her of spreading false and damaging claims that have caused him reputational harm and mental anguish. Kabu seeks a public apology, a retraction of the statements, and damages for libel and malicious falsehoods. The case is set for an inter-party hearing on February 3, 2025.
Kabu alleges that Sarah disseminated defamatory statements through various channels. An internal memo dated December 18, 2024, and shared with 150 employees accused him of conflict of interest, mismanagement, inappropriate relationships with staff, assault, and unethical practices. Additionally, a social media post from December 6, 2024, was cited as defamatory. Sarah also reportedly accused him of gender-based violence, corruption, cartel-like activities aimed at undermining the company, and engaging in abductions and other criminal acts to silence dissenters.
According to Kabu, these allegations have led to insubordination among Bonfire Adventures staff, canceled business engagements, and a loss of clients. He claims the situation has created a hostile work environment, part of a broader effort to oust him from the company. Represented by lawyer Judith Kamoing’, Kabu is pursuing a public apology and retraction of the defamatory statements on the same platforms where they were shared. He also seeks compensatory and exemplary damages for libel and malicious falsehoods, as well as a permanent injunction to prevent further defamatory publications.
As evidence, Kabu has submitted CCTV transcriptions from company meetings where Sarah allegedly made false accusations, along with the December 18 memo and other documented communications. The legal battle brings attention to the couple’s personal and professional relationship, as they co-founded Bonfire Adventures in 2007, building it into Kenya’s leading tours and travel company. Kabu asserts that Sarah’s actions were part of a coordinated effort to tarnish his image and destabilize the business.
The case will be heard on February 3, 2025, when both parties will present their arguments. This lawsuit highlights the complexities of balancing business and personal disputes in the public eye, particularly for high-profile individuals.
