Joyce Omondi is a celebrated Kenyan gospel singer, pianist, and media personality. She is widely recognized for her soulful gospel hits such as Kweli and Conqueror, which have touched audiences in Kenya and beyond. Beyond music, she has also made her mark as a television host, most notably on the Rauka Gospel Show on Citizen TV.
Early Life and Education
Joyce Omondi was born in Nairobi, Kenya, where she also grew up. From a young age, she developed a passion for music, often singing at church gatherings in Woodley, Nairobi, before joining the church choir. Alongside singing, she also learned to play the piano, a skill that would later enhance her performances as a gospel artist.
In 2006, Joyce moved to the United States for further studies. She enrolled at Knox College, Illinois, where she pursued a double major in Economics and Integrated International Studies, graduating in 2010. During her time at Knox, she was active as a Sophomore Senator, Knox Ambassador, and a member of the Harambee Choir, which deepened her musical and cultural engagement.
Music Career
After returning to Kenya, Joyce Omondi launched her professional music career, releasing a series of powerful gospel singles. Her breakout song, Kweli, dedicated to her father who survived the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombing in Nairobi, became a fan favorite. She later released Conqueror, another uplifting track that established her as a rising star in Kenya’s gospel industry.
Her music is characterized by a blend of Swahili and English lyrics, soulful melodies, and heartfelt Christian messages.
In addition to music, Joyce became a television co-host of the popular Rauka Gospel Show on Citizen TV, a platform that brought her closer to audiences across the country. She left the show in 2013 to pursue a Master’s degree in International Development at Georgetown University, Washington D.C.
Joyce Omondi’s contributions to gospel music have earned her recognition, including winning the Groove Award for Video of the Year in 2013.
Personal Life
In 2018, Joyce Omondi married Waihiga Mwaura, an award-winning journalist and celebrated BBC Focus on Africa News Anchor. Their union has been widely admired as one of Kenya’s most inspirational celebrity marriages, blending faith, professionalism, and influence.
Legacy and Influence
Joyce Omondi has built her career on faith, resilience, and authenticity. Her ability to combine gospel music, piano artistry, and media presence makes her a unique figure in Kenya’s creative industry. As an artist, she continues to inspire through songs that celebrate hope, healing, and faith in God.
Her story also resonates with young women pursuing careers in both the creative and professional spaces, proving that passion and education can be harmoniously combined.
Awards and Recognition
- 2013 Groove Awards – Video of the Year (Kweli)
- Recognized as one of the leading female gospel voices in East Africa
Discography (Selected Songs)
- Kweli
- Conqueror
- Nifiche
- Testimony








