Radio personality Mbusi. [Photo/mpasho]Here is a list of Kenyan celebrities who grew up in the slums but have made it to the top.
Khaligragh Jones
Like a lot of other famous rappers, Khaligraph Jones grew up in squalor. Khaligraph hails from Kayole, an estate widely identified with notoriety. He is not embarrassed by his background and is quite proud of his upbringing which tries to bring out the best of from his lyrics.
H_art The Band
They are currently the fastest rising band locally. They are energetic, engaging and a vocal powerhouse with musical versatility. They have become a household name, releasing hit after hit. The three come from Eastlands Nairobi. Mordecai came from Dandora, and Kenneth Muya and Wachira Gatama, Kayole.
Octopizzo
He is one person who is proud and not afraid to talk about where he’s from. Octo grew up in Kibera. It is one of the humble places in Nairobi. Before all the fame, Octo did odd jobs until his big break, when DJ Pinye discovered him at a talent show in the slum. He is one of the A-list rappers in the industry today.
Jua Cali
Paul Julius Nunda popularly known as Jua Cali is a rapper from California estate in Eastleigh. This is an area known for her ‘boyz in the hood’ slang. The celebrated hitmaker started recording with Calif Records where he’s signed to date.
Eko Dydda
Born and raised in Mathare slums, Eko Dydda, too, has a story behind his success. He had to drop out of school at one time for a year-and-a-half due to lack of fees. He came into the limelight after his hit Niko Na Reason.
(Mbusii) Githinji Mwangi
Before all the fame, the widely known presenter, Mbusii hailed from Korogocho. After high school at Maina Wanjigi Secondary School, Mbusii sold soup in Korogocho to eke out a living. His big break came at the Kenya National Theatre, where he met Robo, then a presenter at Ghetto Radio who gave him a job.