Masautso Nkhoma, better known by his stage name Ruff Kid, is a prominent Zambian rapper and songwriter born on March 17, 1986. He rose to fame with his 2004 hit single “Wekatemwika,” which dominated African music charts. His stage name reflects the difficulties he faced growing up, and he is widely regarded as one of Zambia’s top hip-hop artists with a career spanning over 20 years.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Masautso Nkhoma |
| Date of Birth | March 17, 1986 |
| Place of Birth | Kitwe, Zambia |
| Nationality | Zambian |
| Partner | Not publicly disclosed |
| Children | Not publicly disclosed |
| Occupations | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Net Worth | $100,000 – $500,000 |
Early Life and Education
Ruff Kid was born and raised in Kitwe, Zambia, mainly in the Cha cha cha township.
Raised by his single mother, Getrude Nkhoma, he attended Machona Primary School and Nyanje Basic School before relocating to Lusaka. There, he completed his secondary education at Lusaka Boys Secondary School and Chongwe Secondary School.
Inspired by Tupac Shakur’s music during his early school years, he began rapping at a young age. In 2000, he met producer Mainza, who helped him record his first single.
Career
Ruff Kid’s professional music journey began in 2000, with his breakthrough single “Wekatemwika” released in 2004. The track achieved significant success, reaching number one on Channel O and Urban Massive charts.
That same year, he released his debut album All 4 U. He followed up with albums such as Matured (2006), Most Wanted (2007), and Naked Truth (2013).
Ruff Kid has toured extensively across Southern Africa, sharing stages with legendary artists like Oliver Mtukudzi and Yvonne Chaka Chaka.
In 2012, he won the BEFFTA Award for Best International Act. More recently, he released the single “Banja” featuring South African rapper Emtee and earned a nomination for the South African Hip Hop Awards in 2022.
Personal Life
The name Ruff Kid symbolizes the hardships he endured during his childhood. He often credits his mother for his upbringing and channels his life experiences into his music.
Ruff Kid remains an active and influential figure in the music scene, continuously expanding his reach internationally.
Discography
- All 4 U (2004)
- Matured (2006)
- Most Wanted (2007)
- Naked Truth (2013)
Awards and Nominations
- Born N’Bred Award for Best Hip-Hop Video (2007)
- CBC Music Video Award (2007)
- Radio Awards (2007)
- BEFFTA Award for Best International Act (2012)
- Nominated for South African Hip Hop Awards Best International Act (2022)
Ruff Kid remains a key figure in Zambian hip-hop, known for his compelling storytelling and resilience.
