Jua Cali: Tribe, Age, Biography, Wife, Net Worth & More

Before there was Gengetone, before viral TikToks and auto-tuned club bangers, there was Jua Cali—the godfather of Genge and one of the realest names to ever grip a mic in Kenya. Born and raised in the heart of Nairobi, he didn’t just make music; he built a movement, blending street slang with raw authenticity.

But who really is Jua Cali beyond the bars and bangers? From his roots and rise to fame to his private life and paper trail, here’s the unfiltered lowdown on the man who put Genge on the map—and kept it there.

Quick Facts Jua Cali

• Full Name: Paul Julius Nunda
• Stage Name: Jua Cali
• Date of Birth: September 12, 1979
• Age: 45 years (as of 2025)
• Place of Birth: Nairobi, Kenya
• Tribe: Luo
• Nationality: Kenyan
• Profession: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer
• Genres: Genge, Hip Hop
• Years Active: 1998–present
• Record Label: Calif Records
• Spouse: Lilly Asigo
• Children: Three
• Estimated Net Worth: KSh 8 million​

Jua Cali Real Name

Jua Cali's real name is Paul Julius Nunda.

Jua Cali Age

Jua Cali is 45 years old, having been born on September 12, 1979.

Jua Cali Tribe

He is of Luo descent.

Jua Cali Biography

Born and raised in Eastlands, Nairobi, Jua Cali grew up in a strict Catholic household. His parents, Doreen and the late Evans Onditi, were both schoolteachers. Encouraged by his elder brother, Christopher Sati, he began rapping at the age of 10.

He attended Ainsworth Primary School, Shepherds Junior Buruburu, and Jamuhuri High School. Later, he pursued a diploma in Information Technology at Kenya Christian Industrial Training Institute (K.C.I.T.I) in Eastleigh.

Music Career

Jua Cali's musical journey began with the short-lived band Sita Futi. In 2000, he co-founded Calif Records with producer Clemo, pioneering the Genge genre—a blend of Swahili, Sheng, and hip hop. His debut track "Ruka" was released in 2001, followed by hits like "Nipe Asali" and "Kamata Dame." His albums include:

• Juacali Sekta (2006)
• Ngeli ya Genge (2008)
• TuGenge Yajayo (2013)
• Mali Ya Umma (2019)
• Utu Uzima (2023)​

Jua Cali has collaborated with artists like Sainapei Tande and Pilipili, and his music has earned him international recognition.

Awards & Recognition

Jua Cali's contributions to Kenyan music have been acknowledged through various awards:​

• Kisima Music Awards – Boomba Male (2006), Best Male Artist & Boomba Male (2007)
• Chaguo La Teeniez Awards – Best Male & Celebrity of the Year (2007), Favourite Male Artiste, Best Live Stage Performance & Best Collabo Song ("Kwaheri" with Sainapei) (2008)
• Pearl of Africa Music Awards – Best Male Artist (Kenya) (2007)​

Jua Cali Wife

Jua Cali is married to Lilly Asigo, and they have three children together: Evans, Doreen, and Abby.

Jua Cali Net Worth

Jua Cali's estimated net worth is around KSh 8 million, accumulated through music sales, performances, endorsements, and his record label.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, Jua Cali is more than a music icon—he’s a father, a husband, a son of Nairobi, and a proud representative of Kenyan culture. He’s walked the long road from the dusty streets of Eastlands to national fame without losing his authenticity.

And while the music industry keeps changing, one thing hasn’t: Jua Cali’s place in the hearts of those who grew up on his sound. His story isn’t just about success—it’s about staying true to who you are. And that’s something worth celebrating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Jua Cali's real name?

Paul Julius Nunda.​

Which tribe does Jua Cali belong to?

He is of Luo descent.​

How old is Jua Cali?

He is 45 years old.​

Is Jua Cali married?

Yes, to Lilly Asigo.​

What is Jua Cali's estimated net worth?

Approximately KSh 8 million.​

What genre of music does Jua Cali perform?

He is known for Genge, a Kenyan hip hop style blending Swahili and Sheng.