Mwanaa

Mwanaa, is a Kenyan rapper-poet-songwriter, recording and performing artist, and one half of the duo Vijana

Barubaru (V-BE). In the group, he leans into rap and poetic lyricism, blending sharp

writing, humor and the ability to turn everyday Nairobi moments into memorable lines.

The last-born in his family, he carries a playful confidence that comes through in his

public persona.

Mwanaa grew up in Mathare, Nairobi, and his upbringing there has profoundly shaped his

music. His first major break came in 2018 when Vijana Barubaru won the Dreams 2 Beats

contest organized by DJ Pinye. He began in spoken-word poetry before transitioning into

rap, bringing a diary-like, rhythmic quality to his verses that balances V-BE’s softer,

melodic approach.

Vijana Barubaru’s sound sits at the intersection of Afro-pop, Afro-soul, R&B and hip-hop,

but what defines them is storytelling. Love, heartbreak, friendship, disappointment and

the chaos of growing up in a big city recur throughout their songs. Within this mix,

Mwanaa injects his spoken-word edge, capturing both tenderness and grit. His music

draws on life experiences in the ghetto, exploring identity, faith, struggle, joy and the

shifting realities of Nairobi life. He’s part of a young Kenyan generation redefining urban

music, refusing to be confined to a single genre while telling real, honest stories that

resonate widely.