NAIROBI, Kenya — Renowned gospel musician Jimmy Gait, real name James Ngaita, is recovering in hospital after a violent robbery attack by thugs in the upscale Runda neighbourhood of Nairobi on Sunday morning.
The incident unfolded at around 10 a.m. on February 22, 2026, when Gait was confronted by unknown assailants who assaulted him and made off with his mobile phone and other belongings.
In a video shared soon after the attack, the singer appeared bloodied and visibly shaken as he described the harrowing ordeal.
“They have hurt me so badly,” Gait said, showing wounds on his hands and fingers, and added, “It is only by God’s grace that I have survived. I saw death with my own eyes.”
The brutal assault left the celebrated Tenda Wema hitmaker nursing injuries and seeking medical treatment at St. Teresa Hospital in Thindigua, where he was taken for care.
Outpouring of Support and Safety Concerns
Following news of the attack, fans and colleagues rushed to social media to express support and concern for Gait’s well-being.
Many lamented what they see as worsening insecurity, even in affluent parts of Nairobi.
Prominent figures in the entertainment scene called for prayers and urged the public to be cautious, especially as Gait’s phone — containing personal access to his networks — was stolen during the robbery.
DJ Muraya, popularly known as DJ Mo, shared the message and asked followers to be vigilant against any attempts to exploit the situation, particularly through messages sent from the stolen device.
The musician cum preacher has been one of Kenya’s most influential gospel voices for more than a decade. He shot to stardom with massive hits like “Muhadhara,” “Hurai,” and “Kuna Day,” blending contemporary sounds with spiritual messages that resonate across the country.
The attack on such a high-profile cultural figure has reignited public debate over security in urban areas, with critics saying that even affluent Nairobi suburbs are not immune to criminal activity.
Some have called for heightened police patrols and faster response times to prevent similar incidents.
Police confirmed they are investigating the attack and pursuing leads to identify those responsible for the assault and robbery. They have not yet released details about any suspects or made arrests in connection with the case.
