Wahu, whose full name is Rosemary Wahu Kagwi, is one of Kenya’s best-known female musicians. She has built a long career as a singer, songwriter, former model, actress, and entrepreneur, and she remains widely respected in the Kenyan entertainment scene.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Rosemary Wahu Kagwi |
| Date of birth | 22 March 1980 |
| Place of birth | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Partner | Nameless (David Mathenge) |
| Children | Tumiso, Nyakio, and Shiru |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, former model, actress, entrepreneur |
| Net worth | Estimated at around $1 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Wahu was born on 22 March 1980 in Nairobi, Kenya. She grew up in Kenya and later studied at the University of Nairobi, where she graduated with a degree in mathematics.
Career
Wahu began her music career in 2000 and quickly established herself as a fresh voice in Kenyan urban music. Her early songs included “Niangalie,” “Esha,” and “Liar,” but her breakthrough came with “Sitishiki,” which made her a household name.
Over the years, she has continued to release music that blends Afropop, R&B, and gospel influences. Her songs are known for their catchy hooks, emotional delivery, and relatable themes, which helped her maintain relevance across different phases of her career.
Personal Life
Wahu is married to fellow Kenyan musician Nameless, whose real name is David Mathenge. Their marriage has often been admired publicly because the two have grown together both as artists and as a family.
The couple has three children: Tumiso, Nyakio, and Shiru. Wahu has spoken openly about her family life, including the joys and challenges of motherhood, which has made her personal story even more engaging to the public.
Discography
Wahu’s music catalogue includes several well-loved songs and projects. Some of her notable releases are:
- “Niangalie.”
- “Esha.”
- “Liar.”
- “Sitishiki.”
- “Sweet Love.”
- “Running Low.”
- “Sifa.”
- “Nimekubali.”
- Wahu Classics.
- Wahu Gospel EP.
Her discography shows her range as an artist and her ability to evolve with changing musical tastes while staying true to her style.
Net Worth
Wahu’s net worth is estimated at around $1 million USD. Like many public figures, her earnings are believed to come from music, performances, endorsements, and other business ventures.
Awards and Recognition
Awards
- 2008 MTV Africa Music Awards – Best Female.
- 2008 Pearl of Africa Music Awards – Best Female Artist (Kenya).
- 2008 CHAT Awards – Favourite Female Artiste.
- 2008 Kisima Awards – Best Song for “Sweet Love” and Best Reggae Artiste/Group.
- 2010 Tanzania Music Awards – Best Reggae Song for “Leo (Reggae remix)” with AY.
Nominations
- 2006 Pearl of Africa Music Awards – Best Kenyan Female Artiste.
- 2008 MTV Africa Music Awards – Best Newcomer.
- 2008 MOBO Awards – Best African Act.
- 2008 Kora Awards – Best Artiste or Group from East Africa.
- 2009 Tanzania Music Awards – Best East African Song for “Sweet Love.”
- 2009 MTV Africa Music Awards – Best Video for “Little Things You Do” with Bobi Wine.
- 2009 Channel O Music Video Awards – Best African East and Best Ragga Dancehall Video for “Sweet Love.”
- 2011 Tanzania Music Awards – Best Song and Best Collaboration Song for “Mkono Mmoja” with Chege & Temba.
