Chef 187 Biography

Kondwani Kaira, popularly known as Chef 187, is a celebrated Zambian rapper, songwriter, and hip-hop artist renowned for his exceptional lyricism and storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Zambia’s finest rappers, he has built a successful career through hit songs, award-winning albums, and memorable collaborations.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Kondwani Kaira
• Stage Name: Chef 187
• Nicknames: Numeral Uno, Lyrical Sensei
• Date of Birth: May 23, 1986
• Birthplace: Chingola, Zambia
• Nationality: Zambian
• Occupation: Rapper, Songwriter, Musician
• Genres: Hip-Hop, R&B, New Kalindula, Dunka, Zed Beats
• Years Active: 2010–Present
• Record Label: Alpha Entertainments
• Spouse: Yolanda Kaira
• Siblings: Macky 2 and Towela Kaira

Early Life

Chef 187 developed an interest in music at the age of five. However, he decided to pursue it professionally in 2003 after witnessing the growing success of his older brother, Macky 2. Inspired by his brother’s achievements, he recorded his first song in 2005 and steadily worked towards establishing himself in Zambia’s music industry.

Music Career

Chef 187 officially launched his career in 2010 and quickly gained recognition for his clever wordplay, lyrical depth, and unique rap style. In 2011, he collaborated with Macky 2 on the diss track “I Am Zambian Hip-Hop,” which attracted widespread attention within Zambia’s hip-hop community.

Over the years, he has released several successful albums and collaborated with both local and international artists. His music blends traditional Zambian sounds with modern hip-hop, making him one of the country’s most respected performers.

Brand Partnerships

During his career, Chef 187 has represented several major brands, including:

• Former Infinix Zambia Brand Ambassador
• Former Proflight Zambia Brand Ambassador

Studio Albums

• Amenso Pamo (2013)
• Heart of a Lion (2014)
• Amnesia (2016)
• Bon Appetit (2019)
• Bon Appetit Deluxe (2021)
• Broke Nolunkumbwa (2023)

Popular Songs

• Kumalila Ngoma
• Wala
• Foolish Me (feat. P Jay)
• Big Shofolo
• 99 Jobs
• Love You
• Court Session
• Complicated (feat. T-Low & Badman Alahji)
• Amnesia
• Good Teacher Bad Kasukulu
• Mundowe Ndowe (feat. Mumba Yachi & Dope G)
• Winning (feat. Wilz)
• Can’t Wait to Tell You I Told You (feat. S Roxxy)
• Unbeatable (feat. S Roxxy)
• Sensei
• No Minyo Minyo
• I Need You
• Coordinate (feat. Skales)
• One More (feat. Mr P)
• Never Forget
• Nobody (feat. Blake)
• Grammy Nechibemba (feat. Drifta Trek)

Awards & Achievements

Chef 187 has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:

• 2015 Mainstream Album of the Year – Heart of a Lion
• 2015 Best Hip-Hop Album – Heart of a Lion
• 2015 Best Mainstream Male Artist
• 2015 Best Collaboration – Kumalila Ngoma (feat. Afunika)
• 2022 Kwacha Music Awards – Best Hip-Hop Artist

Legacy

Known as the “Lyrical Sensei,” Chef 187 has earned widespread respect for his lyrical excellence, consistency, and influence on Zambian hip-hop. His ability to combine meaningful storytelling with creative wordplay has inspired a new generation of artists, cementing his place among Zambia’s greatest rap musicians.