Kanda Bongo Man works as petrol attendant in Mumias

Kanda Bongo Man is mobbed by his fans at Magharibi Petrol Service Station where he worked Tuesday as a pump attendant. [PHOTO: ROBERT WANYONYI]

By ROBERT WANYONYI

MUMIAS, KENYA: Congolese musician Kanda Bongo Man surprised residents of Mumias in Western Kenya when he arrived unexpectedly to begin his service to the community to commemorate Kenya’s 50 years of independence.

Mumias residents were taken aback when the musician joined pump attendants at Magharibi Service Station to serve customers.

Kanda fitted in easily as he fuelled vehicles and, much to the surprise of the motorists, even went ahead to pay for the fuel they asked for.

“I am in Western Kenya for various shows in Bungoma, Kisumu and several other towns and I have decided to use my free time to reach out to the local community, majority of who are my fans, and hear their success stories and problems as Kenya celebrates 50 years of independence,” he said.

The musician later toured several homes in Kakamega County where he planted remembrance trees, which he requested be named “Kanda Bongo Man Trees”.

Accompanied by some of his band members, he said he was happy to be in Kenya for the celebrations, adding that he always enjoys the hospitality and support of Kenyans.