From Beats to Peace: Yusuf Noah Refigah Joins Elite League of Peace Ambassadors

Renowned Kenyan music mogul Yusuf Noah, popularly known as Refigah Heviweit, has been appointed as one of the five distinguished Ambassadors of Peace, a prestigious recognition of his influence and contributions across the creative, political, and social landscapes of Africa.

This latest milestone not only reaffirms Refigah’s powerful legacy in the entertainment industry but also marks a new chapter in his commitment to global unity, peacebuilding, and diplomacy.

Refigah joins a select panel of visionaries in this role, including H.E Saidou Maiga, Burkina Faso’s Ambassador to Senegal; Hon Samia Yaba Christina, President of the Convention People’s Party and daughter of Ghana’s first president H.E Kwame Nkrumah; Winnie Ogweno, President of the Pan African Movement and Diaspora; and Dr. Ousmane Camara, President of Alternative Nouvelle Generation (ANG).

Together, this formidable team of leaders is tasked with fostering intercultural dialogue, promoting global cooperation, and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.

The official conferment of the Ambassador of Peace title will take place on August 1st, 2025, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, during a high-level assembly of continental dignitaries and thought leaders.

READ ALSO: Double Triumph: Refigah Heviweit Receives Doctorate and Distinguished Fellowship

Speaking on the appointment, Refigah said:

“It is with profound humility that I accept this honor. I am committed to working collaboratively with my fellow ambassadors to promote peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. Through our collective efforts, we aim to create a more harmonious and equitable world, celebrating our diversity and promoting mutual respect.”

A Journey Rooted in Impact

Refigah’s appointment comes at a time when he is preparing for the release of his powerful autobiography, “The Grandpa’s Walking Stick,” scheduled for August 9th, 2025, at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen, Nairobi. The memoir chronicles his incredible rise from a young rapper in Nairobi to becoming a respected music executive, creative economy advocate, and continental influencer.

As the founder of Grandpa Records, Refigah revolutionized the Kenyan music scene, nurturing the careers of top artists such as DNA, Pizo Dizo, Dufla, Amileena, and Kenrazy. His unique blend of streetwise strategy, cultural intuition, and entrepreneurial foresight turned Grandpa Records into a dominant force, not just as a label, but as a cultural movement.

The upcoming autobiography will delve deep into the highs and lows of his career — from managing egos and navigating industry politics to the behind-the-scenes battles and bold decisions that shaped the East African music industry. It is not just a personal story, but a blueprint for aspiring creatives and entrepreneurs across Africa.

Beyond the Stage: Championing Africa’s Creative Economy

Refigah’s influence stretches far beyond the realm of music. Today, he collaborates with over 17 African governments, advising on policy frameworks aimed at boosting investment in the creative economy. He has become one of the continent’s most vocal advocates for positioning arts and culture as a central pillar of economic development and youth empowerment.

With a staggering 61 global awards to his name, including honors in music, innovation, and leadership, Refigah is a rare example of an artist who has successfully transitioned into policy, diplomacy, and development. His Peace Ambassador title is yet another testament to his unwavering dedication to creating impact.

As he prepares to step onto the continental stage in Ouagadougou, Refigah’s voice — once used to spit powerful rhymes — will now champion a different rhythm: the rhythm of peace, unity, and progress.