“I regret doing a degree in BSc Mathematics.”- Wahu.
Written by Zenna Issa on December 9, 2024
Legendary Kenyan artist Wahu Kagwi has shared her aspiration to pursue higher education, specifically earning a PhD.
The mother of three, who already holds a Master’s degree, expressed this ambition to her fans on social media.
During an interactive session, Wahu invited her followers to share their biggest life regrets, asking, “What’s one thing you regret doing? Ongea hiyo kitu ikutoke,”
In response to her own post, she revealed, “I regret doing my first degree in BSc Mathematics…I should have pursued communication instead. But alas, haidhuru, imenitoka,”
Wahu explained that her lack of passion for mathematics stemmed from her inclination towards the arts.
She admitted, “I wasn’t as passionate about math as I was about the arts. I’m more of a creative than a scientist.”
She encouraged others to align their studies and careers with their passions, saying, “Find out what your nieces are passionate about and see where their passion meets profit.”
She emphasized the importance of pursuing work that resonates with one’s interests while also considering financial viability. “It’s easier to make money doing what you love than forcing yourself to love something just because it makes money,” she stated.
Wahu also shared the advice she gives her children: “I keep telling my kids it’s one thing to love something, but it’s another to make money from it… because bills are real. Finding something—or even multiple things—you love to do and using that to make ends meet is a blessing and a beautiful goal to work towards.”
Reflecting on her time in university, Wahu noted, “I didn’t have many gigs in campus, so it was never hard to balance a mathematics course with music.
Furthermore, having a lot on my plate with studio sessions, modelling, and classwork helped me develop discipline and manage my time well. But because of my passion, I kept my love for music alive.”
Wahu added that she enjoyed being a student, saying, “Campus was great, and I enjoyed every bit of it.
No responsibilities, no stress, and lots of time to hang out with friends… It was a super fun time. I must say I liked all my lecturers; I can’t remember any of them being too harsh or uptight.”
One thing she is particularly proud of is that she dated only one person throughout campus—and later married him.
Wahu is one of the pioneering female musicians in Kenya. Her first song, “Niangalie,” was released in 2000 and was well received both in Africa and globally.
Her first three singles included “Esha” and “Liar.” Her major breakthrough came with the hit “Sitishiki,” released around 2005.
Her biggest hit to date is “Sweet Love,” which she dedicated to her daughter, Tumiso Nyakwea.