Reuben Kigame Biography: Parents, Books, Ethnicity, Children, Age, Songs, Awards, Wife

Reuben Kigame is a Kenyan gospel musician, preacher, author, and social justice advocate, lost his sight at the age of three yet built a remarkable career that spans more than three decades in music and public service.

He has released nearly 30 albums featuring inspirational songs that blend faith, hope, and calls for justice, with popular tracks like “Enda Nasi” and “Huniachi” becoming staples in Kenyan worship.

Known for his powerful voice and thoughtful lyrics, Kigame also worked as a teacher, journalist, and media consultant.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Reuben Kigame
• Born: 13 March 1966
• Age: 60 years old
• Birthplace: East Bunyore, Vihiga County, Kenya
• Nationality: Kenyan
• Occupation: Gospel Musician, Teacher, Author, Preacher, Activist
• Height: Unknown
• Parents: Susan Olozenjia and the late Richard Lichete
• Siblings: Philemon
• Spouse: Julie Kigame (m. 2007); Mercy Wanderwa (m. 1991, d. 2006)
• Children: Shalom Wanze Orembo, Shekinah Waridi Kigame, Shema Wendo Kigame, Yeshua Wagasa Kigame
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $1 million

Early Life and Education

Reuben Kigame was born on 13 March 1966 in East Bunyore, Vihiga County, Kenya.

He was raised by his mother Susan Olozenjia and his late father Richard Lichete as one of seven children, with a brother named Philemon and the names of the others not publicly detailed. He lost his sight at age three.

Kigame attended Salvation Army High School for the Blind for both O-Level and A-Level, then earned a Bachelor of Education (Second Class Honours, Upper Division) in History, Philosophy and Religious Studies from Kenyatta University between 1987 and 1990.

He later obtained an M.Sc. in Journalism and Media Studies from Moi University, a Certificate in Christian Apologetics from Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, and pursued further studies including a Ph.D. in World Christianity at Africa International University.

His ethnicity is Luhya (from the Bunyore community), and he is a committed Christian.

Career

Reuben Kigame began his career while still a student at Kenyatta University, where he recorded his first gospel album, What a Mighty God We Have, in 1987 at the age of 21.

He initially worked as a teacher and combined education with music ministry, using his platform to inspire faith and hope through song.

Early recordings and performances in churches helped him gain recognition in Kenya’s growing gospel scene, where his clear voice and meaningful lyrics stood out.

He went on to release nearly 30 albums over more than three decades, including titles such as Ombi Langu, Tulia, Raw Emotions, Usifadhaike, and Asante.

Many of his songs address social issues alongside spiritual themes, and he collaborated with other artists while mentoring younger musicians through his academy.

Kigame also built a parallel career in media and academia, serving as a radio presenter, journalist, and lecturer, which broadened his influence beyond music into public discourse on justice and governance.

Reuben Kigame became a respected voice in Kenyan gospel music and civil society.

His work earned him the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) medal from the Kenyan Head of State for contributions to media and music.

Through his songs, books, and advocacy, he left a lasting impact by encouraging integrity, peace, and social consciousness while mentoring the next generation of artists and leaders.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @dr.reuben_kigame
• Facebook Handle: Dr. Reuben Kigame
• Twitter Handle: Unknown

Personal Life

Reuben Kigame first married Mercy Wanderwa in 1991, whom he met at Kenyatta University; she tragically died in a road accident in 2006.

He later married Julie Kigame in 2007, and the couple lives with their family in Eldoret, Kenya.

Together they have four children: daughters Shalom Wanze Orembo, Shekinah Waridi Kigame, and Shema Wendo Kigame, and son Yeshua Wagasa Kigame.

Kigame has spoken openly about the challenges of raising his family after losing his first wife, emphasizing faith, resilience, and the joy he finds in his role as husband, father, and grandfather.

Discography

• What a Mighty God We Have (1987)
• Wastahili Bwana (1997)
• Ombi Langu (2002)
• Tulia (2007/2010)
• Raw Emotions (2012)
• Usifadhaike (2016)
• Asante (2024)

Net Worth

Reuben Kigame has an estimated net worth of around $1 million, which is derived mainly from his long music career, including royalties from nearly 30 albums and live performances.

Additional income comes from his work as a teacher, media consultant, author, and public speaking engagements.