Richard Kasendwa, professionally known as Ziza Bafana, is a talented artist, songwriter, and guitarist hailing from Uganda. Renowned for his electrifying performances and infectious raga dancehall tunes, Ziza Bafana has earned a reputation for setting the stage ablaze.
The moniker "Ziza Bafana" holds significance derived from various origins. In biblical context, "Ziza" refers to the son of Shiphi. In Rwandan culture, "Ziza" signifies someone who can aid the president. "Bafana" stems from the South African football team's name, "Bafana Bafana," translating to "strong youths," which resonated with Ziza Bafana's self-perception.
During a music expedition to South Africa in 2012, Ziza Bafana adopted the name "Bafana" after a night out with a South African friend. Impressed by its connotations of strength and youthfulness, Ziza Bafana embraced it for his stage persona.
Ziza Bafana is characterized by his distinctive style, infusing Jamaican accents into his music. Most of his repertoire, predominantly in the Luganda language, embodies the vibrant spirit of dancehall music.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1988 in Luvule Village, Masaka District, along the Bukakata Town Road, Ziza Bafana was raised by his parents, Ronald Sseruwoza and Noerina Nansikombi, until their demise in 2013. Orphaned at the age of nine, he relocated from the village to Kampala.
Ziza Bafana's educational journey began at Bulenge Primary School, where his proficiency in playing the drums earned him a five-year scholarship. Subsequently, he attended Kyebando Primary School for his Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE).
Continuing his education at St. Stephen's Kyebando Secondary School, Ziza Bafana's academic pursuits were interrupted in his third year due to financial constraints.
Relocating to Kyebando, a Kampala suburb, Ziza Bafana resided with his father's aunt. His transition to Kampala was catalyzed by a school errand to purchase a ball, which ignited his desire to remain in the city.
Following the passing of his parents, Ziza Bafana relocated to Kampala to reside with his paternal aunt.
Early Challenges and Musical Beginnings
Ziza Bafana's youth was marked by mischievous behavior, notably his penchant for causing disturbances with his noisy bike in the village. His first encounter with Kampala, during the ball purchase errand, sparked his aspiration to reside in the city permanently.
Embarking on his musical journey in 2011, Ziza Bafana began performing for monetary gains, delving into the realm of dancehall music with unwavering determination. Work Experience
Prior to pursuing a career in music, Ziza Bafana was engaged in motorcycle repair work at his aunt's garage. Subsequently, he relocated to Masaka City to reside with his uncle, where he acquired skills in automobile repair.
Additionally, Ziza Bafana cultivated a livelihood as a farmer, cultivating tomatoes, while concurrently honing his musical talents by playing the guitar at various churches in Masaka, notably the Good News Church. It was at this church where he found solace, embraced spirituality, and sharpened his musical prowess as a member of the church choir.
Following his departure from formal education, Ziza Bafana relocated to Kampala, where he continued his involvement in motorcycle repair work. His journey in the music industry commenced within the church milieu, where he actively participated in choir performances and instrumental sessions, laying the foundation for his musical career.
Career in Music
Ziza Bafana embarked on his professional music journey in 2011, venturing into the realm of dancehall music with unwavering dedication. His debut as a songwriter commenced with "Nkoye Obufumbo" for Cindy, followed by his inaugural track titled "Abakazi Babatulugunya."
The breakthrough moment arrived with his hit single "Jayo Ntekeyo," propelling him to prominence within the music scene. However, Ziza Bafana highlights the challenges within Uganda's music industry, emphasizing the need for governmental support.
Distinguished by his Jamaican Patois rap style, Ziza Bafana's music videos often feature lively choreography, reminiscent of Jamaican music culture, resonating with Ugandan audiences.
Formerly part of the musical duo "Back 2 Life" with Yiya Moze, Ziza Bafana ventured solo after the group disbanded. His musical endeavors have taken him across the globe, with performances in Turkey, South Sudan, South Africa, Sweden, Amsterdam, and the United Kingdom.
Driven by a vision to elevate Ugandan music on the global stage, Ziza Bafana views his talent as a divine gift and endeavors to captivate audiences with his artistry and stage presence.
Transitioning from gospel music to secular tunes was influenced by the encouragement of his friend Mark Africa Kirwana, who recognized the potential of Ziza Bafana's distinctive voice in the secular music realm. Pre-Music Career
Before venturing into the music industry, Ziza Bafana spent his time fixing motorcycles in his aunt's garage.
- "Omutima Mugumu" with Eddy Kenzo and David Lutalo - "Togenda" with Yiya Moze - "Namagalo" with Yiya Moze - "Tebakulimba" with Yiya Moze - "Friendly Match" with Yiya Moze and Zani Brown - "Abantu Baffe" ft. King Saha - "Proud to Be African" with Jose Chameleon
Awards
Ziza Bafana has garnered three Zzina Awards and three HiPiPo Awards. He has been honored with the Rising Star Award twice and has also secured the Best of the Best Awards.
Other Achievements
In 2015, Ziza Bafana served as a brand ambassador for MTN Smart Series.
Religious Affiliation
Ziza Bafana hails from a Christian family with a strong spiritual background.
Personal Life
Following a breakup with his ex-wife Vanessa, who is the mother of his first child, Ziza Bafana now resides with Irene, with whom he shares another child.