Songwriter and singer Ali Yusuf, better known as Arrow Bwoy, is in a joyful season. The hitmaker is set to become a father for the second time, and he couldn’t be more excited.
How would you describe your 2025 so far?
It is amazing. I am healthy, and that’s the most important thing. I have not been hospitalised, and I can still get my daily bread. For me, that’s a blessing.
You are going to be a dad for the second time. How is that for you?
Another handsome boy is on the way. I am really looking forward to it. I am praying and hoping for Mama Kai, [singer Nadia Mukami], to have a beautiful and safe delivery. It is not easy to bring forth life. Women are truly blessed. We are praying that God gives her the strength so she comes out of it healthy and well.
Were you in the labour ward during your first child’s delivery?
Yes. From the moment she told me she was pregnant, I walked the entire journey with her. We went into the theatre together, and I experienced the whole process. It was emotional, intense, but beautiful.
Do you plan to be present again this time?
Absolutely. I will be right there in the labour ward. It is the least I can do to support her. These moments mean everything to me.
You had planned to wed this year. What happened?
The traditional wedding was supposed to happen on April 19. Everything was ready – the clothes, the décor, it was all paid for. But then we found out Nadia was expecting. According to our cultures, you cannot proceed with dowry or traditional rites when the woman is pregnant, so we had to pause. My parents said we couldn’t proceed with the plans, and I respect that.
So it is an unexpected pregnancy?
Actually, we did not know what was going on until we went to the hospital and found out Nadia was pregnant. She had just been feeling sick. It was unexpected in terms of timing, but a huge blessing.
Where do you get the courage to accompany your wife to the delivery room? Most women struggle.
I never thought it was a big deal. She carried our child for nine months, and with complications. So the least I could do was be there. That moment is serious. It is a matter of life and death. You are watching someone bring life while fighting for her own. Being there is about love, support, and prayers. She needs to know she is not alone.
What is it like being a couple in the same industry? Does it ever get complicated?
Actually, it helps. We understand each other’s schedules and scenes. If I am performing and there is a woman on stage, she gets it. It is the job. In the same way, when I see her performing with a male dancer or artiste, I don’t get jealous.
Have you two ever tested each other’s boundaries, especially on stage?
We both know our limits. Nadia is mature and knows how far to go. I also know where to draw the line. Fans sometimes push boundaries, but we know how to handle them. You just have to stay grounded. If you open your heart to everyone, you will hurt people, and eventually you’ll hurt your brand.
