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Gospel Singer & 2022 Presidential Candidate
Reuben Kigame (born 13 March 1966) is a Kenyan gospel musician, author, and activist, widely recognized for blending artistry with social advocacy. Early Life and Education Born in East Bunyore, Vihiga County, Kigame was the fifth of seven children. At the age of three, he lost his sight due to cataracts, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to resilience and faith. He attended the Kibos School for the Blind and the Salvation Army High School for the Blind, before pursuing higher education. Kigame earned a Bachelor of Education degree from Kenyatta University and later a Master of Science degree from Moi University. Music Career Kigame is one of Kenya’s most prolific gospel musicians, with a catalogue of more than twenty albums. His music, deeply rooted in Christian values, has served as both worship and a medium for social consciousness. Through song, he has addressed justice, governance, and the moral responsibilities of leadership, establishing himself as a cultural voice beyond the church. Advocacy and Leadership He founded the Seeing Hands Ministry, an initiative dedicated to empowering and supporting visually impaired people in Kenya. Beyond music, Kigame has been active in national civic movements, notably as part of the #LindaKatiba coalition, which defends Kenya’s 2010 Constitution. Political Engagement In 2022, Kigame entered the presidential race, running on a platform of servant leadership, inclusivity, and integrity. Although his candidacy faced legal hurdles, his bid reinforced his image as a principled leader seeking to blend faith, governance, and service.
Released more than 20 gospel albums and is recognised as one of Kenya’s leading gospel musicians
Won Songwriter of the Year at the 2018 Groove Awards
Received the 2016 Malaika Awards Lifetime Achievement for contributions to gospel music:
Awarded the Presidential Order of the Grand Warrior in 2010
Received the Head of State Commendation in 2005
Founded the Seeing Hands Ministry to support visually impaired persons
Ran as an independent candidate in the 2022 Kenyan presidential election, promoting servant leadership and inclusive governance
1980s–present: Gospel musician; recorded more than 20 albums and performed across Kenya
1990s–present: Founder and director of the Seeing Hands Ministry supporting visually impaired persons:
2013: Ran for governor of Vihiga County (first entry into politics)
2022: Independent candidate for President of Kenya, advocating servant leadership and disability rights
2022–present: Advocate and board member of the #LindaKatiba movement promoting constitutionalism and disability rights
After being barred from the 2022 presidential race he sued the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, arguing that he had collected 48,000 signatures and was discriminated against because of his disability
His decision to join politics sparked debate about whether artists should seek elective office; critics questioned his electoral viability while supporters praised his courage
Kibos School for the Blind – early education
Salvation Army High School for the Blind – secondary education
Bachelor of Education, Kenyatta University
Master of Science, Moi University