Kenya’s hip hop fraternity has mounted a swift and visible show of support for veteran artist Paul Mboya Odhiambo, better known as Kitu Sewer, after he sustained life-threatening injuries that now require urgent surgery.
News that the spoken word artist and rapper suffered a right proximal humerus fracture dislocation and a fracture along the lateral curve of his sixth rib has prompted an outpouring of concern across the creative community.
Doctors have recommended an operation to insert a metal plate in his arm to enable proper healing and restore full mobility.
Within hours of the news spreading, fellow artistes and fans began mobilising to raise funds for the procedure.
The fundraising momentum follows a recent Kickz n Barz celebration event, an initiative centred on honouring creative icons while they are still active within the industry.
Kitu Sewer emerged at a time when grassroots expression struggled for platforms and visibility.
Through raw lyricism, social commentary and fearless experimentation, he carved out space for a generation of creatives who viewed art as a tool for truth-telling rather than mere entertainment.
His work chronicled urban Kenyan realities with honesty, offering voice to communities often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Beyond his performances and recordings, his impact is strongly felt through mentorship.
Several artists who now command national stages credit him with guidance and collaboration at formative stages of their careers.
His role as a cultural custodian, nurturing talent, encouraging authenticity and sustaining alternative artistic spaces has long been acknowledged within the industry.
That legacy has now translated into action.
Artists across genres have amplified calls for support on social media, while fans have rallied around the appeal with donations and messages of encouragement.