On a day in 2018, Chimano of boy band Sauti Sol was going about his day when a photo of him and his partner surfaced online. That moment marked the public reveal of his sexuality, a truth he had kept private for years.
Chimano shared that from the band’s early days in 2005 until 2018, he “wore a mask” at work.
He had to carefully manage how he spoke, dressed, and behaved.
Even though his bandmates were aware and supportive, he feared that coming out could affect the band’s image and growth.
“I wanted to keep a clean representation of me. My queerness would have been a scandal,” he said.
Being the first Kenyan pop star to come out as gay came with criticism. Many people publicly questioned his choices, claiming they went against culture and tradition. Chimano described facing harsh backlash and societal misunderstanding.
He officially embraced his identity in 2021, but challenges continued. In 2022, a festival he organized, Love and Harmony, was canceled by authorities due to its focus on LGBTQ+ themes. Chimano responded with determination, writing on social media that the obstacles only strengthened his resolve.
Since then, he has performed his EP Heavy is the Crown across Europe and Australia, including cities like London, Cardiff, and Paris. He is also preparing a memoir and a solo album scheduled for release in 2026.
Recently, the British Council recognized Chimano as part of the UK-Kenya Season of Culture, highlighting his role as a cultural ambassador.
By Vivian K.