In Kenya, “kitu kidogo,” literally “something small,” was a common way of asking for a bribe. A police officer at a roadblock, a clerk at a government office or a gatekeeper might ask for it. In 2001, the singer-songwriter Eric Wainaina released a song called Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo, “the land of something small.” With a catchy melody and pointed lyrics, it captured the frustration of millions of Kenyans with everyday corruption. The song became an anthem and a part of national conversation.
The song and reaction
Eric Wainaina grew up in Kenya and studied music at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. He began performing in Kenya and gained attention with songs that combined Kenyan rhythms with pop and soul influences. Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo describes a society where small bribes are expected for almost everything. Its message was direct but delivered with humour.
The song came out near the end of President Daniel arap Moi’s long rule, when many Kenyans were calling for change. The song was played widely on radio and in public places, and its title became a common phrase.
Theatre, peace and corruption
Wainaina released other songs on social themes, as well as love songs and patriotic music. He has also worked in musical theatre, writing and producing stage productions in Kenya. After the violence following Kenya’s 2007 election, Wainaina and other artists took part in calls for peace and reconciliation. His songs are in Swahili and English, reaching audiences across East Africa.
Corruption remains a major issue in Kenya, and the song is still quoted in debates. Younger Kenyan artists have followed his example in addressing social issues through music.
Legacy and a cultural moment
Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo is remembered as one of the most important Kenyan songs of its era. Part of the song’s success lay in its simple, memorable chorus, which listeners could sing along to easily. Many Kenyans who never bought the album still knew the words. The song arrived as Kenyans prepared for the 2002 election, which ended decades of single-party dominance. Its message fitted the mood of change.
Kitu kidogo means something small. Eric Wainaina’s song about it turned out to be one of the biggest things in Kenyan music that decade.
