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It’s not very often that a granny born and raised in Africa sports dirty ragged jeans, old school canvas, flashy bling, Rastafarian colours and the signature hat look popular with big shots in the hip-hop industry. But this is the typical look of one Bibi Cheka (Cheka Hijja) who says, “I’m a hip-hop artiste. I can’t perform on stage with dira (free flowing dresses) or buibui. I must wear pants, canvas and T-shirt,” she said. “But offstage, I dress my age,” she added.
The 58-year-old rapper of Bongo Flava who was discovered live on air by a local FM station says singing had always run in her blood. She reveals that she has been a songwriter for as long as she can remember.
As a matter of fact, her late mother was a dancer in a popular band during her time. Despite discovering her talent late in the day, Bi Cheka has rubbed shoulders with celebrated artistes of Bongo Flava including Ney Wa Mtego, Roma and Godzilla. Her first single, Ni Wewe featuring Mh. Temba was produced under Mkubwa na Wanawe Band by Said Fella. Other hits under her belt include Wazazi Nachoka and Mateso songs which majorly tell the story of her life.
In an a candid interview with Mkasi, a Tanzanian television talk show, the mother of seven children - six deceased - says her relationship with the young generation artistes is purely professional. “I don’t mind being greeted with shikamoo,” she said adding that women messing up is a matter of choice.
“Straying is your choice,” Bi Cheka said, adding that women must laugh with caution lest they send the wrong message, “Your laughter will betray you.”
Interestingly, Bi Cheka revealed in the interview that she has never had sex since 2002 when she lost her first child. Despite having been married twice, the ardent Yanga fan made this decision for fear of contracting HIV/Aids. In her other life, Cheka played football and was nicknamed Cheka Gilbert Machine.
Currently, she is taking care of her grandchildren.
-The Nairobian Reporter
