Barbara Kanam Mutund is a Congolese singer, songwriter, producer, television personality, philanthropist, and politician, born on September 27, 1973. Known for her soprano voice and her blend of Congolese rumba, gospel, and world music, she often highlights themes of peace, love, and women’s rights in her songs. She currently holds the position of Director General of the Cultural Promotion Fund in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Barbara Kanam Mutund |
| Date of Birth | September 27, 1973 |
| Place of Birth | Bukavu, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo |
| Nationality | Congolese |
| Partner | Awilo Longomba (former) |
| Children | 1 |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, producer, TV personality, philanthropist, politician |
| Record Labels | Kanam Music, Nouvelle JAT Music, Kiki Productions |
| Net Worth | $1-2 million |
Early Life and Education
Born in Bukavu, in what was then Zaire (now DRC), Barbara Kanam grew up as one of twelve children in a well-off Lunda–Bemba family. Her father was a hotel executive, and her mother came from the Bemba tribe.
She completed secondary education at a Belgian private school in Kolwezi and later studied international business at the University of Pretoria. While there, she discovered her musical talent through participation in an evangelical church choir.
She also received musical and theological training at Rhema Bible School and Psalmody Academy before financial challenges led her to seek employment to support her family and further her education.
Career
Barbara’s talent was discovered in Abidjan by renowned Ivorian reggae artist Alpha Blondy and producer Dodo Koné, leading to the release of her debut album Mokili in 1999, featuring the gospel-inspired hit “Mokili Ekoleka.”
Following a pause in her career for motherhood, she released Téti in 2003, which garnered her the Most Promising African Female Artist award at the Kora Awards and multiple other accolades across Central Africa.
In 2008, Barbara established her own label, Kanam Music. Her third album, Karibu (2010), included collaborations with prominent artists like Fally Ipupa and was critically acclaimed. She also participated in pan-African humanitarian projects such as the 2014 Ebola awareness song.
Her later albums Zawadi (2015) and Transfiguration (2023) showcase her continued growth, blending traditional and modern African musical styles. Alongside her artistic career, she was appointed as Director General of the Cultural Promotion Fund by the president of DRC in 2023.
Personal Life
Barbara Kanam has one child. She was previously in a significant relationship with fellow Congolese musician Awilo Longomba.
Philanthropy
Kanam is the founder of the Kanam Foundation, which focuses on women’s empowerment and child welfare.
She supports peace initiatives and has been involved in various charitable causes, including the fight against childhood cancer and the Ebola epidemic.
She has also been honored with honorary doctorates and named as a UNDP goodwill ambassador for climate action in the DRC.
Barbara Kanam Net Worth
Her net worth is estimated at around $1-2 million, accumulated through her music career, production work, entrepreneurial ventures, and public service.
Discography
Albums
- Mokili (1999)
- Téti (2003)
- Karibu (2010)
- Zawadi (2015)
- Transfiguration (2023)
Awards and Nominations
She has won several prestigious awards, including the Kora Award for Most Promising African Female Artist, Best Female of Central Africa at Kunde d’Or, Black Music Awards for Revelation of the Year and Best Video, Okapi Award for Best Female Artist, Afroca Music Award for Best Female Artist, and the Canal 2’Or Jury Special Prize.
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