Winnie Bwire Ndubi, affectionately known as “Dida,” was born in Kenya in the 1980s. She exhibited a passion for the arts from a young age, which was nurtured by her supportive parents. They encouraged her to participate in plays and poetry, enrolling her in holiday programs to enhance her artistic talents. She later pursued higher education at Makerere University in Uganda, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Fine Art and Design.
| Full Name | Winifred Bwire Ndubi |
| Popularly Known As | Dida |
| Date of Birth | 1980s |
| Place of Birth | Kenya |
| Date of Death | August 2024 |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Industrial Fine Art and Design |
| Occupation | Actress, Businesswoman, Baker, Artist |
| Known For | Role as “Dida” in Sultana |
| Spouse/Partner | Dan Sonko (ex-partner) |
| Children | 2 (step-children) |
| Cause of Death | Breast cancer |
Artistic Journey and Career
Winnie Bwire was a multitalented individual, excelling in various fields such as acting, scriptwriting, songwriting, singing, painting, and interior design. She began her professional acting career in 2014, making her debut in the TV series Penzi on Raia TV. Over time, she established herself as a prominent figure in the Kenyan entertainment industry with roles in productions like Kisasa and Tehanini on Maisha Magic East.
Her role as “Dida” in Sultana, a Swahili telenovela that aired on Citizen TV, was her most memorable. In the series, she portrayed a character deeply in love with Jabali Junior (JJ), caught in a love triangle involving the blind protagonist, Sultana. Her nuanced portrayal of Dida earned her widespread recognition and appreciation.
Business Ventures
Beyond acting, Winnie was a skilled baker and a businesswoman. She successfully managed her baking business while balancing her acting career. Her artistic skills extended into painting and interior design, making her a versatile entrepreneur and artist.
Personal Life
Winnie was in a relationship with fellow coastal actor Dan Sonko. Their relationship began after Sonko tragically lost his first wife during childbirth in 2017. Winnie provided him with love and comfort as he navigated the difficult period of grief. However, their relationship ended in July 2023 due to personal challenges, including Sonko’s struggles with mental health. The couple separated amicably for the sake of their children and well-being.
Battle with Breast Cancer
In 2022, Winnie was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer, a diagnosis she initially found hard to believe. Despite her courageous battle with the disease, she remained optimistic and reached out to the public for financial assistance to undergo treatment. In December 2023, she successfully raised funds for treatment abroad but continued to fight the illness. By August 2024, she appealed for additional financial support, though, tragically, she passed away in a Turkish hospital in August 2024.
Legacy
Winnie Bwire Ndubi will be remembered not only for her talents as an actress and artist but also for her strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Her role as Dida in Sultana remains a beloved memory among fans and her contributions to the Kenyan entertainment industry will be missed.
Net Worth Table
| Profession | Actress, Businesswoman, Baker, Artist |
| Estimated Net Worth | $100,000 – $200,000 (Approx.) |
| Sources of Income | Acting, Baking Business, Art |
| Notable Assets | Business ventures, Artistic works |
| Financial Contributions | Fundraised for medical treatment in 2023 |
Winnie Bwire’s influence will be remembered through her acting, business endeavors, and artistic talents. Her story is a testament to perseverance and artistic excellence in Kenya.
(FAQs) about Winnie Bwire Ndubi
- Who was Winnie Bwire Ndubi?
- Winnie Bwire Ndubi, popularly known as Dida, was a talented Kenyan actress, artist, baker, and businesswoman. She was best known for her role as Dida in the Swahili telenovela Sultana on Citizen TV.
- What was Winnie Bwire’s role in Sultana?
- In Sultana, Winnie played Dida, a complex character deeply in love with Jabali Junior (JJ). The storyline revolved around a love triangle between Dida, JJ, and the blind protagonist, Sultana.
- When was Winnie Bwire born?
- Winnie Bwire Ndubi was born in the 1980s in Kenya.
- When did Winnie Bwire pass away?
- Winnie Bwire Ndubi passed away in August 2024 after battling stage 4 breast cancer.
- What was Winnie Bwire’s educational background?
- She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Fine Art and Design from Makerere University in Uganda.
- Was Winnie Bwire married?
- Winnie Bwire was not married at the time of her death but was in a relationship with fellow actor Dan Sonko for two years. The couple separated in July 2023 due to personal reasons.
- What other talents did Winnie Bwire possess?
- Apart from acting, Winnie was skilled in scriptwriting, songwriting, singing, painting, and interior designing. She was also a successful businesswoman and a skilled baker.
- How did Winnie Bwire discover she had cancer?
- Winnie Bwire was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2022 after experiencing pain and swelling under her armpit. She initially ignored the symptoms, thinking they were related to her menstrual cycle.
- Did Winnie Bwire seek public help for her treatment?
- Yes, in December 2023, Winnie reached out to the public for financial assistance to raise Sh7 million for her medical treatment abroad. She later sought additional support in August 2024.
- What was Winnie Bwire’s net worth?
- Winnie Bwire’s estimated net worth was between $100,000 and $200,000. Her income came from her acting career, baking business, and artistic ventures.
- What is Winnie Bwire’s legacy?
- Winnie Bwire will be remembered for her exceptional talents in acting and the arts, as well as her strength and resilience in battling cancer. Her role as Dida in Sultana left a lasting impact on Kenyan television.
