Paul Mugambi

Location: Garissa

Challenge: Blind

Website: www.mugambipaul.com

Paul Mugambi, otherwise known as Mpofu is a blind rapper from Kenya, and has never thought of stopping, and now his music is a motivation tool to everyone including those without disability.

Though hip hop is widely known as a conscious, see-rap about it music, Mpofu has proved that seeing isn’t a sole requirement for rapping. Mpofu, who has been blind for over 16 years, says "I started recording in 2011 mostly to show disability shouldn't stop people pursue their dreams and be what they want to be in life".

He adds "I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say, 'Because of you I didn't give up.' I want all people to understand persons with disabilities are able and we should give them opportunities in all sectors. My music is all about representing the disability world."

People without sighrt are able to live full and productive lives just like any sighted person. He says "We want the same chances to succeed as everyone else. With the right techniques, blindness can be reduced to an inconvenience, rather than being a tragedy."

Though recording has been a huge challenge for Mpofu, especially gathering funds for studio time, he promises that his upcoming album Never never Ever give up will still see a release sometime in 2014. The album will include his single My ability – which was recorded at Grandpa Records – and features two gospel artists.

Mpofu says "I have featured two ladies on my album. Jackie, a gospel artist; she sings on the 'my ability' single with Val, another gospel artist."

In March 2014, Mpofu was interviewed on Morning Express on KTN TV in Kenya.

He was asked who he would like to work with in the near future, Mpofu said he has always wanted to work with sassy singer Avril in Kenya, professor Jay and Wanaume Tmk on the East African scene.

Paul Mugambi aka mpofu - "Never Ever Give Up"