“I First Saw Him in 1986!” Kidum Pays Tribute to Christopher Matata Through a Remake of Inyagasambu
In the music landscape of the East African region, few names stand out as pillars of talent and cultural heritage like Kidum Kibido and the late Jean Christopher Matata. Kidum’s heartfelt recollections about Matata who passed away in 2012 reveal a deep bond formed through music, a bond he recently honored by releasing a remake of Matata’s iconic song Inyagasambu.
Kidum remembers vividly the first day he saw Matata. It was in 1986, when he was just 12 years old. Matata had passed near their home in Kinama, where both artists were born and raised. Captivated by the star, Kidum and other children followed him for nearly four kilometers, amazed by the presence of the musician they deeply admired.
At that time, Matata had just released the album Mukobwa Ndagowe, which featured the widely celebrated track Amaso Akunda. According to Kidum, Matata had revisited the song after originally developing it with the group “Mihigo des Grands Lacs” a band Kidum would later join in 1991 as a drummer. By then the band had transitioned through different names, becoming Imboneza and eventually Nil Swing.
Kidum says he learned immensely from Matata not only about singing but also about writing music and presenting it professionally. Matata, known for his acoustic guitar mastery, became a wellspring of inspiration and guidance in Kidum’s early artistic journey.
Before his passing, Matata knew he had a loyal admirer in Kidum. And among all his compositions, Inyagasambu was the one Kidum cherished the most. That connection made the news of Matata’s death in 2012 especially painful. During the funeral, Kidum honored his mentor by performing Inyagasambu, a moment that deeply marked him and strengthened his commitment to preserve Matata’s legacy.
Today, Kidum considers his remake of Inyagasambu not just a musical tribute but a heartfelt message rooted in gratitude, friendship, and respect for an artist who helped shape his path. To him, the song is more than a melody it is a timeless story written with emotion and memory.
The new version of Inyagasambu was produced with exceptional care. Pastor P handled the audio production, while the video was crafted by Sixte and Jay V. The visual story features performances by Jolie Fave, Lucas, and Kizz B, who help portray the message of remembrance and honor carried in this special tribute.



