Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has fulfilled a pledge he made earlier this year by handing over two modern houses to veteran Kalenjin musician Andrea Chamdany in Kericho County.
In an handover event at Chamdany’s home on Saturday, June 20, 2026, Sudi describe the recognition as a way of honoring a musician whose songs have inspired generations of Kenyans and preserved the cultural heritage of the Kalenjin community.
The legislator said he made the promise during Pastor Kimeto’s 50th anniversary celebration and was pleased to see it come to fruition.
“Today I fulfilled my promise by handing over two modern homes to Mzee Andrea Chamdany in Kericho County, the voice that shaped our melodies for generations through songs like ‘Rirenech Oh Kwandanyo’,” Sudi said.
Chamdany’s power of music
The Kalenjin Musics Festival patron recalled growing up listening to Chamdany’s music around the fireside and said he never imagined that one day he would be in a position to support the veteran artist.
“What began as childhood admiration has now come full circle,” he added.
Sudi praised Chamdany for using music to educate, inspire and preserve cultural values, noting that his songs have played an important role in shaping society.
According to the legislator, the veteran musician’s work went beyond entertainment, helping tell the stories of the community, teaching values to younger generations and offering hope to families facing difficult circumstances.
“Artists like him plant seeds in the soul of a nation long before the rest of us understand their worth. It is only right that we return the gift now,” Sudi said.
The handover comes amid growing calls for greater recognition and support for veteran artists who have contributed significantly to Kenya’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Other gifts to Mzee Chamdany
The Kapseret lawmaker also gifted the artist a brand new car with what he said will assist the assist to trek distances during his daily routine.
“I handed Mzee Andrea Chamdany brand new wheels in Kericho County so he can travel with comfort and ease. The man behind “Rirenech Oh Kwandanyo” won’t have to trek the distances his music once covered on foot.”
The recognition was ignited by the founder patron of KMF, late Johana Ng’eno who during his tenure, supported a number of Kalenjin artists from the great rift valley region.
Chamdany is widely known for his traditional Kalenjin music, including the popular song Rirenech Oh Kwandanyo, which has remained a favorite among many listeners over the years.
