During the 1990s, the Soukous music wave took Africa by storm, especially in East Africa, with Kenya being one of the countries consuming the genre. This energetic genre, originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and characterized by vigorous dancing and rhythmic beats, was popularized by musicians such as Kanda Bongo Man, Diblo Dybala, Yondo Sister, and Arlus Mabele.
His band served as a launchpad for musicians like Diblo Dibala, who went on to successful solo careers. Kanda has maintained an active touring schedule into the 2020s, with recent performances and releases like Yolele! Live in Concert (2021) and Kekete Bue (2022).
In 2025, he received a Lifetime Achievement MTM Award in Bristol, UK, honoring his cultural contributions. He remains a beloved figure, with his music still played widely and inspiring younger generations.
During a musical tour in Kenya in April 1991, Kanda Bongo Man performed to a filled Nyayo National Stadium.
A week earlier, retired President Daniel Moi’s rally in Central Kenya had been attended by a paltry crowd. Moi was surprised and wondered who Kanda Bongo Man was and how the man could attract such a huge following.
During the tour, Hezekiah Oyugi a powerful Permanent Secretary in the Moi administration, often called “the most powerful man in Kenya” at the time asked Kanda Bongo Man to perform at his private residence for his daughter’s birthday. Kanda refused, leading to swift repercussions: his performance permit was withdrawn, his visa cancelled, and he was deported and barred from Kenya.
This story circulated widely in Kenyan media and social discussions, often linked to rumors of Kanda’s attention toward a Kenyan woman with some accounts mentioning journalist Catherine Kasavuli, though details vary.
Although veteran broadcaster Fred Machoka, who had been part of the team that organized the events, later clarified that Kanda’s troubles at the hands of state agents may have stemmed from his refusal to perform at the wedding of the daughter of the then-powerful PS Hezekiah Oyugi (which the musician had reportedly declined, stating he didn’t perform at private functions), the rumors that Kanda may have made seductive overtures to Catherine Kasavuli persisted. This was especially true after one of the officers in the arresting team was allegedly quoted as alluding to it.
Former Nakuru District Commissioner Jonah Anguka described what transpired with the Congolese musician in his memoirs, Absolute Power.The performance license for Bongo Man was cancelled, and afterwards, heavily armed guards were posted at the hotel where he was staying.The police had strict orders that no one contact the musician before he was deported the next morning.
Kanda Bongo Man was invited to return to Kenya by the then Jubilee Secretary General Raphael Tuju, twelve years after he was deported.