Nonini, whose real name is Hubert Mbuku Nakitare, is a Kenyan rapper, media personality, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He is widely known as one of the pioneers of Genge music and is often referred to as the “Godfather of Genge.” Over the years, he has built a strong reputation in Kenya’s entertainment industry through music, media, and business.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Hubert Mbuku Nakitare |
| Date of birth | 2 October 1982 |
| Place of birth | California Estate, Kamukunji, Nairobi, Kenya |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Partner | N/A |
| Children | Yes |
| Occupations | Rapper, media personality, entrepreneur, philanthropist |
| Labels | Calif Records, Homeboyz-associated work, and other music/production affiliations |
| Net worth | 1 – 3 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Nonini was born on 2 October 1982 in California Estate, Kamukunji, Nairobi, Kenya. He grew up in Nairobi and developed an early interest in music and street culture, which later shaped his style and sound. He has largely kept details about his education private, so there is limited public information about the schools he attended.
Career
Nonini began his music journey in the early 2000s and quickly became one of the most recognizable voices in Kenyan urban music.
He played an important role in popularizing Genge, a sound that blends local language, street expressions, and relatable everyday themes. His breakout songs helped him gain nationwide attention and made him a major figure in the industry.
He released albums such as Hanyaring Game, Mwisho ya Mawazo, and Godfather, each of which helped strengthen his place in Kenyan music.
Beyond performing, he has also worked as a radio presenter and has been involved in music production and artist development. He is also known for his entrepreneurial spirit, including business ventures tied to fashion and media.
Personal Life
Nonini is known to be private about his personal life. He has spoken in interviews about being raised mainly by his mother, and his family background has influenced the way he views life and fatherhood. He has children, but he has not consistently shared detailed information about his partner or family life.
Net worth
Nonini’s net worth is estimated at around $1 million to $3 million USD, earned through music, radio work, endorsements, production, fashion, and other business ventures.
Discography
Some of Nonini’s well-known works include:
- Hanyaring Game
- Mwisho ya Mawazo
- Godfather
Popular songs associated with him include:
- “Manzi wa Nairobi”
- “Weh Kamu”
- “Keroro”
- “Kumbuka”
- “Kadhaa”
Awards and Nominations
Nonini has received several awards and nominations across Kenya’s music and entertainment scene. His most notable recognitions include:
- 2004 — Chaguo La Teeniez Awards: Best Male Artiste.
- 2007 — Chaguo La Teeniez Awards: Song of the Year for “Si Lazima.”
- 2007 — Chaguo La Teeniez Awards: Collaboration of the Year for “Si Lazima.”
- 2007 — Chaguo La Teeniez Awards: Group of the Year for P-Unit.
- 2007 — Kisima Music Awards: Best Group for P-Unit.
- 2008 — Chaguo La Teeniez Awards: Best Group for P-Unit.
- 2008 — Chaguo La Teeniez Awards: Most Sizzling Video.
- 2008 — Kisima Music Awards: Best Group for P-Unit.
- 2008 — Kisima Music Awards: Best Collaboration for P-Unit and DNA on “Una.”
- 2008 — MTV Africa Music Awards: Listener’s Choice nomination.
- 2008 — Pearl of Africa Music Awards: Best Male (Kenya) nomination.
- 2012 — Kisima Music Awards: Best Hip-Hop Song for “Colour Kwa Face.”
- 2012 — Kisima Music Awards: Best Director of a Music Video for “Colour Kwa Face.”
- 2012 — MCSK Awards: Cross Over Artiste Across All Media.
- 2012 — BEFTA Awards UK: Best International Afrobeats Act nomination.
- 2012 — Named International Lifestyle Ambassador by Limkokwing University.
- 2013 — MCSK Royalties: Top Earner Artist.
He has also been linked to later recognition for his humanitarian work through the Colour Kwa Face campaign.
