Tracing The Music Journey of Waithira Mungai

By: Elijah Maingi

Tell us more about yourself.

My name is Anne Waithira Mungai, a gospel music minister and born-again Christian. I hail from Githunguri in Kiambu county. Am a teacher by profession, teaching in Murang’a County, married to one Mr. Anthony Mungai, and a mother of two.

2. Coming up, did you ever think of becoming an artist?

I loved singing since I was a little girl and I aspired to be a great artist after my studies. Although I was afraid of the challenges I saw artists going through, I had a strong desire for being an artist.

3. Why should I become a musician?

Music Promotes happiness in the musician’s life as well as in other people. The main advantage of being a musician is that you are providing happiness to others. Sometimes people listen to music when they are sad and it relaxes their minds.

4. When did your musical journey start and how has it been so far? 

My musical journey began when I got a confirmation that being a gospel music minister was my calling. I reminisce about that one fateful day at the theater when I had an operation that almost cost my life. I got a chance to visit heaven briefly and a conversation with my maker reminded me that I had not yet fulfilled my purpose on earth. He confirmed to me that I needed to get back to work on it. I recorded my first song in April 2021 titled “no-ngûrûgama”, translating to “I’ll again be on my feet.”  This is the same song that has been voted as the worship song of the year in the Great Rift Valley Awards. I have three more songs, Ndagûthathaiya (I worship you), Nîûndûîire mbaara (you have fought for me) and wî bata naniî (you do care about me). So far God has been very faithful to me.

5. Speaking about the Great Rift Valley Gospel Music Awards, how did you make it to the competition?

About this award, all I can say is that I made it by God’s grace. I was nominated and I was voted in, but it’s all in God’s favor.

5. Please share your secrets with us; how did you win this competition?

To win the competition, people have to vote for you and as many times as possible. God favored me and I emerged as the winner.

6. What are some of the roadblocks which women encounter in the music industry?

Being a woman artist and especially a married woman, the main challenge is balancing between ministry, family, and career. It’s not easy but God has helped me balance the three. I give my family quality time when am not working. It’s also not easy for a female artist to market her work. Many would want to take advantage of us in the name of helping. I thank God for ordering my steps day by day. 

7. Despite all the challenges in the music industry, what motivates you most?

My greatest motivation in the music industry is the testimonies I get from various people. When someone confesses that he/she listened to my song and got uplifted, that’s enough for me to do even more.

8. Recently, we’ve seen musicians clout chase before they release a new song, what’s your take on this?

I don’t support clout chasing at all. If it’s not a forced gift, there is no need to seek attention. As an artist, wait for God’s manifestation. God’s time is the best

9. What’s your plan for the next half a decade?

I plan to own a recording studio. There are many gifted artists out there who would wish to record their songs but they are struggling financially. I desire to support them to realize their dream.

10. Your closing remarks as well as a word of advice to all aspiring artists.

I would like to thank the Almighty God for giving me with this gift. I purpose to serve Him with all what I have. I would also thank my family and friends who have been supportive in this ministry. I owe them most of the great achievements I have today.To my sponsors, may the Almighty God bless you.

To all aspiring artists, always trust in God, believe in yourself, utilize your gifts to the maximum, be consistent in this ministry and let the Holy Spirit guide you. Don’t forget to pray. Thank you.