Vijana Barubaru have pressed pause on their journey as a music duo, with Tuku Kantu and Mwana Wa Wambui choosing to pursue solo careers after years of creating and performing together.
The Nairobi-based artists announced the move in an official statement on September 9, 2026, saying they have reached a point where they want to give more attention to their individual growth and creative work.
The two said their time as Vijana Barubaru has played an important role in shaping their careers, giving them a shared history and a strong bond that they will carry into their next chapter.
“For years, the world has known us as Vijana Barubaru. Two voices, one shared journey,” they said.
While announcing the hiatus, the artists made it clear that the decision comes from their desire to explore their abilities as individuals and take their music in different directions.
“As artists and as individuals, we have both continued to grow, and out of the desire to further explore our creative journeys, we have decided to go on a hiatus to focus on our solo careers,” they said.
Kantu and Wambui said the period ahead will give them an opportunity to learn more about themselves as artists, develop their own creative identities and explore what they are capable of achieving individually.
They also reflected on what their partnership has meant to them, describing the duo as more than just a music project.
“Vijana Barubaru has given us a foundation, history, and brotherhood,” they said.
As they prepare to work separately, the musicians thanked the fans who have followed and supported their journey over the years.
“None of what we have achieved would have been possible without the love and support you have given us,” they said.
They asked their supporters to extend that backing to their individual careers as they move into a new phase.
“Bring the same love, if not more, and let's continue making great memories and music,” they said.
The partnership between Kantu and Wambui began before Vijana Barubaru was officially formed, with the two meeting and writing music together while still pursuing careers independently.
Their collaboration later developed into Vijana Barubaru, which gained attention for romantic Swahili love songs and collaborations.
Among their notable works is the hit “Kifo Cha Mende”, which became part of the duo's musical journey.
With the latest announcement, Kantu and Wambui will now explore their individual careers while putting their work as Vijana Barubaru on hiatus.