I never had an affair with President Kikwete - 'Wanifuatia Nini' hit singer Ray C

How did you get into drugs?

My ex-boyfriend introduced me. I did not know that he was an addict when I first met him. As a beginner, one cannot know the difference between bhang and other drugs. I later graduated and started smoking all sorts of drug cocktails.

By the time my body was almost ‘shutting down,’ it was too late. If I stayed for long without smoking anything, my whole body would be in pain.

How exactly did the drugs make you feel?

It is a rule that all drug addicts must not praise the experience, but speak against it.

How much did you spend on drugs in a week?

A lot of money that I can’t even keep track of. At some point, I even sold my house, closed my shops and disposed all my property. I learnt that no matter how rich one is, as long as you are into drugs’, being broke is inevitable.

Did your family and friends know you were a drug addict?

I was hiding, hoping that my condition would not blow up. My mother noticed some changes. I lost my glow, lost my appetite and was very moody. Speaking of which, my mother was against my relationship. She knew that my ex-boyfriend was into drugs and even warned me against dating him but I did not listen.

When did you decide to quit?

In 2012, I was determined to either die or go to jail. I just wanted out. I was sick and tired of being a slave to drugs. Every shilling I made was spent on drugs. I even became suicidal. I decided to break up with my boyfriend. If my mother had not been there for me, you would be telling a different story.

How did Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete learn about your condition?

I’m not quite sure, but I assume he saw it in the media. Contrary to reports that we had an affair, this is the first time I got close to him and I’m very thankful for his help.

As a celebrity, how hard was it for you to come out as an addict?

My mother was determined to help me. I did not even know that she had spoken to the media. However, President Jakaya Kikwete’s help came at the right time.

 There are rumours that you occasionally still use drugs. How true is this?

People can specualate all they want. I cannot control their opinions!

What changed after quitting?

Apart from leading a healthy lifestyle, I also lost confidence in men. It will be a while before I date again because my last relationship is the reason I had to suffer. I’m done dating younger men and my next boyfriend might as well be 60 years old!

You have not been in the game for five years. How do you intend to make a comeback?

It’s true that Bongo flava has changed, but it’s for the best. It simply means that as the founding musicians, we laid stable ground.

Do you feel like you have already been replaced?

If you are talking about Rachel, then I’m not afraid at all. From her dressing, music style and even eyes, one can easily tell that I inspired her. When I see her, I don’t see competition, but rather my number one fan.

You have opened an initiative called Ray-C Foundation to help addicts, do you plan on reaching out to your ex?

In as much as I would like to save his life, it is up to him to come out and willingly ask for help. You cannot force someone to change. However, when he is ready, I will be here for him.

Are you confident with your body weight?

Yes. It does not really bother me. However, I would like to hit the gym and lose some weight as it is already impacting on my health.

Some of your fans claim that your skin is lighter than usual. Did you bleach yourself?

Not at all. Blame it on healthy living!

You have been quiet musically, when should we expect a comeback?

I have already recorded an album, but my manager advised me to wait for the right moment to release the music.