Refigah is the founder and CEO of Grandpa Records, one of the established recording labels in Kenya. When he is not working on the next big hit, Refigah is quite the family man and doting dad to two-year-old son, Sultan.
He opened up to Sunday Magazine about what fatherhood means to him.
What do you love most about being a parent?
One of the nicest surprises that comes with fatherhood is how suddenly one begins to see anew the world around him. Nothing that has ever occurred to me before the birth of my son has ever allowed me to unchain certain sections of my heart like that tiny baby has done and so no matter how old I am, or how experienced in other ways I am, I am still being introduced to a whole new upper level of love and consciousness that I never even knew existed.
What are some of the challenges you face as a father?
My biggest challenge raising my son is time. I spend time with him at least twice a week but I still feel it’s not enough. I wish I could take him with me to the office and to all my meetings but daddy has to work.
What are some of the lessons you would like to teach him?
Basic human respect and so many other good character traits will follow suit. Respect for authority also shows obedience. Respect for others covers kindness. Respect for oneself shows self-control and self-worth.
How do you spend time together?
I always start by taking him to the arcade at The Hub or Galleria which are his favourite spots then I take him somewhere for lunch and finish up the day by visiting his grandma in Kibra or the other grandma in Ngong.
If your son was old enough what advice would you give him?
I would tell him that no matter what advice he is given, the decision to act is his. And to always accept responsibility for his actions.
As a father what are some of the lessons you have learnt so far?
That patience is key in bringing up a child and you have to be the best teacher to your child.
