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Rapper, Songwriter & Entrepreneur
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Trufena Wanjiru Gitu (born April 25, 1991), professionally known as Fena Gitu, is a prominent Kenyan singer, songwriter, rapper, and entrepreneur. Widely recognized in East Africa for her unique blend of urban soul, hip-hop, and Afro-pop, she is often referred to by the moniker "The Fenamenal Woman." Over a career spanning more than a decade, Gitu has established herself as a significant voice in the Kenyan music industry, celebrated not only for her lyrical prowess but also for her dedication to artistic independence and brand building. Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Gitu's early exposure to music was nurtured within her family, which she has described as musically inclined. She attended Precious Blood Secondary School in Riruta, Nairobi, where she graduated in 2007. During her formative years, she demonstrated leadership and creative initiative, often organizing impromptu performances for her peers. Following her secondary education, she enrolled at the United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) in Nairobi, where she pursued a degree in International Relations and Psychology, balancing her academic responsibilities with a budding musical career. Gitu’s professional musical journey began in 2008 when she won the Fête de la Musique competition at the Alliance Française in Nairobi. This victory served as a catalyst for her career, providing her with the confidence and exposure necessary to enter the industry. Initially, she worked as a backing vocalist, notably for established Kenyan artists such as Dela and Muthoni Drummer Queen. This period provided her with essential experience in live performance and industry networking before she transitioned into a full-time solo career in 2010. Her debut album, *Fenamenon*, released in 2014, cemented her status as a rising star, showcasing her ability to fuse genres such as neo-soul, reggae, and hip-hop into a cohesive "urban soul" sound. This was followed by a string of successful singles, including "Doing Her Thing Tho," "Siri," and "African King," which received extensive radio airplay and solidified her fan base, known as the "Fenatics." Gitu has also gained significant acclaim for her stage presence, having performed at major regional platforms like the Blankets & Wine festival and the Koroga Festival. Internationally, she has collaborated with various artists and graced global stages, including the Afro-punk celebration in New York. Beyond her musical output, Gitu is a proactive entrepreneur. She founded Fenamenal Entertainment, a multifaceted production company through which she manages her own releases and oversees creative projects. This move towards self-management reflects her broader commitment to artist autonomy. In the lifestyle sector, she has successfully diversified her brand through ventures like the "FenamenalxDenri" collection of travel bags and the launch of her lifestyle brand, "My Favourite Things." Her professional success has led to high-profile brand ambassadorships, including partnerships with major entities such as Smirnoff. Gitu's impact on the industry extends to advocacy and recognition. In 2017, she was honored as the Best Female Artist at the Groove Awards. In recent years, she has continued to garner accolades, including being named a Meta "Rising African Star" in 2023 and an ambassador for Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program in 2024. Throughout her career, Gitu has maintained a focus on social themes, including female empowerment and self-reliance, often weaving these narratives into her songwriting. While she maintains a high public profile, Gitu is known for keeping her private life guarded. When faced with public speculation regarding her personal life and sexuality, she has consistently maintained a boundary, asserting that her primary focus remains on her music and creative contributions rather than public scrutiny of her private affairs. Through her sustained output and professional discipline, Fena Gitu remains a cornerstone of the contemporary Kenyan music scene, serving as a role model for independent artists navigating the complexities of the African entertainment industry.
Won Fête de la Musique competition (2008) and began professional music career
Founded the Fena Gitu Foundation and won Best Female Artist at the Groove Awards (2017)
Launched FenamenalxDenri bag collection and served as Smirnoff brand ambassador
Ended professional relationship with producer Jaaz Odongo following sexual assault allegations
Responded to media speculation about her sexuality by asserting her privacy
In December 2019, Fena Gitu publicly criticized the organizers of Nai Fest for cutting her performance short to accommodate a Nigerian artist's set, labeling the treatment as disrespectful to local talent.
News articles featuring Fena Gitu
Named a Meta rising African star (2023) and appointed Spotify EQUAL Africa ambassador (2024)
Won the Fête de la Musique singing competition at Alliance Française in 2008, marking the start of her professional music career.
Transitioned to a solo music career in 2010 after previously serving as a backing vocalist.
Released her debut studio album, 'Fenamenon', in 2014.
Launched the Fena Gitu Foundation in 2017 to support philanthropic initiatives.
Performed at the Afro-punk festival in New York in 2017.
Won the 'Best Female Artist' award at the Groove Awards in 2017.
Appointed as a brand ambassador for Marini Naturals, a Kenyan natural hair care line, in February 2018.
Named a brand ambassador for Smirnoff Kenya alongside Octopizzo in September 2018.
Released her sophomore studio album, 'Unleashed', in November 2019.
Named one of Meta's 'Rising African Stars' in 2023 for her contributions to the music industry.
Released her third studio album, 'Love Art Lust', in June 2023.
Appointed as the Spotify EQUAL Africa ambassador in February 2024 to promote gender equity in music.
Submitted tracks 'Pretty Girl' and 'Repeat' for consideration at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in 2025.
Throughout her career, Gitu has frequently been the subject of public speculation and media gossip regarding her sexual orientation, to which she has consistently responded by maintaining that her private life is not a matter for public concern.
In October 2020, Gitu publicly announced that she was severing professional ties with her long-time music producer, Jaaz Odongo, following sexual assault allegations made against him, stating that she would not work with individuals accused of such misconduct.