Kidum Kibido, the Burundian-Kenyan musician known for his soulful tunes and deep voice, has had a life full of unexpected turns and profound lessons.
Now 50, Kidum, whose real name is Jean-Pierre Nimbona sat down with Dr. Ofweneke to reflect on his journey, from fleeing civil war to finding success in Kenya, and the personal battles he has fought along the way.
A Misleading Start
In 1995, at the age of 21, Kidum fled his home in Burundi due to civil war, believing that coming to Kenya would lead to relocation in Europe by the UNHCR. “I came to Kenya because I was told in Kenya, UNHCR takes people to Europe,” he recalled.
However, instead of finding a new life in Europe, he ended up staying in Kenya, where his path took an unexpected turn toward music. Playing in bands, he discovered his passion and talent for music, which eventually led him to stardom.
A Fear of Alcohol
Growing up, Kidum had a his long-standing fear of alcohol. This was because he saw his father struggles with alcoholism. “He was always in the hospital, losing his teeth. It made me despise alcohol,” Kidum recounted. As a result, he developed a fear of alcohol. And he ended up entirely avoiding drinking for most of his life.
But when he turned 40, Kidum gave up his fear. “I realized it couldn’t do anything to me. I can control it now. I drink just for fun,” he explained.
The Trials of Marriage
Remarkably, Kidum has been married three times. And two of those marriages ended in failure.
“I met a Congolese woman here while I was a refugee, then another one. That’s three. Then I got involved with a Burundian—it was a movie, drama, you know, those who love drama.”
He is now married to his third wife, Christina.
“Even now, I could still attract women, but I won’t because I’m committed to Christina,” Kidum joked,
He attributes some of his relationship difficulties to the absence of a father figure in his life.
“I lost my dad early, so I missed out on guidance. I was alone in a foreign land,” he shared.
So, what advice would Kidum give on love?
“Do not lie to people that you love them if you do not. And if you do not love, do not commit.” He advises.
Eight Children
Kidum is a loving dad to eight children, including an adopted one.
He got his first child, a son, quite young while he was still in school.
His oldest son, is now 30.
“I had my first child while still in school. My oldest son is 30 now—he’s like Schwarzenegger, a real terminator. Kidum, the high priest,” he joked.
By Vivian K.