Benard Ng’ang’a, better known by his stage name Nga’nga’lito, rose to fame after participating in the popular singing competition Tusker Project Fame (TPF). Although he didn’t win the competition, his electrifying performances and melodious voice left a lasting impression on many fans.
In the years following his stint on the show, Nga’nga’lito seemed to step away from the music scene and pursue other ventures outside of entertainment. Here is his story, as recounted by Muranganews:
Nga’nga’lito, who discovered his musical talent while in high school, was born and raised in Lanet, Nakuru County. Before joining Tusker Project Fame, he worked as a construction laborer and later as a mechanic.
Although he didn’t take home the Ksh 5 million prize, Nga’nga’lito made it clear that he held no grudges about his loss. “Of course, I’m not everyone’s favorite. I can’t win every competition. That was it. But to the winner, I would urge him to spend the money wisely because if he lacks wisdom, the money will be very little,” he remarked.
In a past interview on Citizen TV, Nga’nga’lito’s father, David Maranda, expressed confidence in his son’s success in the competition. “We had people who encouraged us, while others said hurtful things. But we kept praying for him because we know how the world is,” he said.
Nga’nga’lito’s mother, Nelly Wambui, echoed her husband’s sentiments, recalling the pain caused by negative comments about her son. “There are people who really upset me and said hurtful things, including his peers, my fellow women, and even older men. It was a heartbreaking experience,” she said, holding back tears.
After his elimination from Tusker Project Fame, Nga’nga’lito released an album titled Zawadi, along with other projects, before gradually fading from the spotlight. He also ventured into the media industry. “I’m the assistant producer of a breakfast show at a local TV station, and I’m also a businessman. Apart from music and work, my family occupies a significant amount of my time,” he shared in an interview with Nairobi News.
In a 2013 interview, Nga’nga’lito revealed that he had invested in several entertainment establishments across the country. “I own pubs in Nairobi and Nakuru, including one called ‘Karma’ in Ongata Rongai. I also have land in Nakuru that I sometimes farm. It’s not like I have big investments everywhere in Kenya; I am still a hustler like everyone else,” he explained.
A report on Opera News also mentioned that he operates a beauty parlour in Dagoretti Corner, Nairobi County.
On the personal front, Nga’nga’lito is married and has one daughter. “I’ve really tried to keep my private life as private as possible, but ladies need to know that I’m married to the girl I’ve been dating since Form Two, and we have a daughter,” he said.
