Renowned Kenyan artist Iyanii, famous for his hit song Pombe, has left fans stunned after revealing a deeply personal aspect of his life — he has never been intimate with a woman and is waiting until marriage.
In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke, the singer, whose real name is Iyan Oure, opened up about his decision to remain celibate, saying it is a commitment rooted in faith, discipline, and self-respect. “I have never had intimacy since I was born,” Iyanii shared. “I believe in waiting until marriage. Don’t laugh; I am serious. I am a good boy. I have preserved myself.”
“I’m Preserved”: Iyanii Stands Firm on Celibacy
In an industry known for fame, fast lifestyles, and temptations, Iyanii stands out as an artist guided by spiritual values. He refers to himself as “preserved” and says he is holding out for a woman who shares the same principles. “When it comes to having a partner, I wouldn’t say I have a list of qualities. I’m just praying for a good woman. Someone who is preserved just like me,” he said.
Iyanii emphasized that he is not interested in creating checklists for love or relationships. Instead, he believes in divine timing and divine choice. “I don’t have a list because I believe these things are controlled by God. You don’t decide who you want to settle with — God does. So I leave it all to Him,” he added.
Faith Over Fame: The Path Less Traveled
Iyanii’s bold declaration sets him apart in a celebrity world where romantic scandals often make the headlines. His decision to remain celibate is a rare stance that he hopes will inspire others to value spiritual convictions over societal pressure.
“I know this is going to be shocking,” he acknowledged. “But I have made peace with who I am and what I stand for. I don’t care about fitting into what people expect from someone in my position. My values come first.”
Fans, Faith, and Future Projects
Despite his personal life taking center stage, Iyanii hasn’t lost focus on his career. He expressed deep gratitude to his fans, who he says are the backbone of his success. “I must thank my fans for their support and love. They are the reason I wake up and go hard in the studio. I have so much in store for them this year — powerful hits and major collaborations are coming.”
One of those collaborations includes a track with gospel star Size 8, which appears on her new album. Interestingly, Size 8 confessed that she’s never listened to Iyanii’s secular music and prefers to see him through the lens of their shared faith. “Iyanii is gifted. He carries a great seed of God,” she said, applauding his input on the spiritually inspired song they created together.
A New Kind of Role Model
Iyanii’s journey challenges the stereotypes often associated with male musicians in Kenya. Instead of flaunting flashy lifestyles or controversial headlines, he’s building a brand anchored in humility, faith, and authenticity.
His fans have praised him online for being brave enough to speak openly about his celibacy, with many calling him a positive role model for the younger generation. As more artists come forward to embrace their truths, Iyanii is showing that being true to yourself — even in silence — can make the loudest statement.
Iyanii’s vow of celibacy, his trust in divine matchmaking, and his focus on values over societal norms make him a refreshing voice in the Kenyan entertainment scene. As he continues to grow his music career, he is also redefining what it means to be a star — proving that sometimes, strength lies in restraint and purpose.
