Ras Pau

Paul Mbugi Wambogo, popularly known as Ras Pau, is a djembe percussionist, drum maker, and cultural educator from Nairobi, Kenya. With over 27 years of experience, he has become a custodian of African rhythm honoring its roots while shaping its future through craftsmanship, performance, and mentorship.

His journey began at the Kenya National Theatre, where the sound of the djembe captured his spirit. Guided by master percussionists such as Shutu, Veve, Idi, Kaboge, Chalo T., and deeply mentored by Mr. Koko Malali Zingaro, Ras Pau refined his artistry and developed a lifelong devotion to African drum culture.

He is a founding member of the Zingaro Percussion Group, a collective of young Nairobi artists brought together by rhythm, creativity, and community. Beyond performance, Zingaro has grown into a youth empowerment hub, championing arts, organic farming, and cultural sustainability.

Ras Pau has performed across Africa and Europe, including Holland, Belgium, Sicily, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. His collaborations span institutions such as the French Cultural Centre, D.S.W Germany, and Mathare Child Fund / Panairobi, where he continues to empower young mothers through arts-based programs. He also contributed to the French Embassy’s Social Fund for Development through a spotlight initiative on Kenyan music.

From his intimate Art Studio in Mathare North, he teaches drum making and djembe performance, offering private classes, group workshops, and immersive sessions—such as his on-and-off drumming circles at Sandai Farm and collaborations within art therapy and wellness spaces.

Driven by the belief that creativity can reshape communities, Ras Pau mentors youth from underserved backgrounds and envisions creating community arts schools rooted in African heritage and healing.

Motto: “ART is the backbone of society.”