Rafiki Mazimpaka, popularly known as Rafiki, boasts of a music career that stretches back to 2002 when he was in a school choir. 

The 31-year-old King of Coga style is a two-time winner of Uganda’s defunct PAM Awards. Rafiki is now setting his eyes on the prestigious Primus Guma Guma Super Star 5, grand prize of Rwf24million, courtesy of Bralirwa.

According to the organisers, the competition aims to inspire local artistes to become icons and fulfill their musical talent as well as engaging the whole nation in an exciting music journey.

Rafiki is competing against Bruce Melodie, Senderi International Hit, Paccy, Dream Boys, Active, TNP, Knowless Butera, Bull Dogg and Jules Sentore. Vote Rafiki by writing 8 and send to 4343 (on all networks MTN, TIGO and Airtel).

The fifth season is judged by renowned house hold names in Rwanda’s music industry Aimable Twahirwa, Lion Manzi and Clementine Uwitonze, aka Tonzi. The grand finale is scheduled for August 15 in Kigali.

The Gikomando singer shared his views on music and marriage with The New Times’ Hassan Mutuhe.

Excerpts:

How was the Nyamirambo roadside show last Saturday?

Saying it was marvelous or fantastic would be an understatement. But if I tried to explain it, I would say it was proof that Rwandans have massively picked interest in local music. Which is a good thing for every local singer and the turnout was so surprising.

How has your music journey been?

Challenging but promising. When I released my first song – Igipende - in late 2004, the support was so overwhelming. Since then, I have seen people appreciate Coga (Rwandan dancehall) style which I pioneered and that speaks volumes. It shows that I’m doing something right. However, every success calls for more energy; it’s that tasking.

Let’s talk about marriage. Do you believe in it?

Who doesn’t? Even those who lie to themselves that they don’t, will soon be hit by reality! To me, I believe that happiness is only real when shared, and I do believe that that only comes through marriage. Marriage is a strong foundation for a family and families are core to our society as Rwandans, as Africans.

Are you married yourself?

Yes, I’m married. Been married for four years and I’m a proud father.

What do you think is the main cause of marriage breakups these days?

I attribute it to so many factors but largely to modernity and technology. I can break it down into groups; social media, stylishness, and greed.

Social media has made the world a small village. Someone can easily contact someone on WhatsApp, Facebook, etc. With communication made easier, temptation gets easier too.

Then greed. Today’s women are so demanding. This comes with innovations in trends. For example, if she needs an expensive phone or car that you can’t afford, then she will look elsewhere for someone who can provide it.

What would you like to tell Rwandans?

First, I would like to thank them for supporting me throughout the ten years of my career. I owe them my success.Second, I would urge them to keep supporting local talent. By doing that, they’ll not have supported an individual artiste but the whole music industry in general.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw