Kunta Kinte Clarifies Stroke Linked to Malaria Treatment, Denies Lifestyle Speculation

Ghanaian musician Kunta Kinte, part of the duo Bradez, has publicly addressed the origins of a stroke he suffered 15 years ago, dispelling rumors that attributed the health crisis to his personal lifestyle.

During an interview on AsaasePa 107.3 FM’s Penpensiwa with host Obomengniibaa Nana Akua on April 26, the artist revealed the stroke followed a malaria treatment he received as a university student, countering long-standing assumptions about its cause.

Kunta Kinte, whose legal name was not disclosed, emphasized that speculation linking his condition to reckless behavior was unfounded. “I had swag, the ladies were all over me, but that is not why I had a stroke,” he stated. He recounted contracting malaria while studying at the University of Ghana and seeking treatment at the campus hospital, where overcrowding delayed care by 90 minutes. After receiving an injection from a doctor, he believes the medication triggered the stroke, which paralyzed the right side of his body and temporarily left him unable to walk or use his arms.

Despite the physical challenges, Kunta Kinte expressed optimism about his recovery. “I have been sick for the past fifteen years. But I remain motivated and believe that one day I will be completely healed,” he said. He acknowledged advice from his brother, renowned musician Okyeame Kwame, to avoid public discussions about the incident but noted this would be his final commentary on the matter.

The rapper’s account underscores the often-overlooked risks of medical interventions and the societal tendency to conflate health struggles with personal conduct. His experience highlights systemic issues such as healthcare delays and adverse treatment effects, challenges exacerbated in overburdened medical facilities. Kunta Kinte’s decision to speak out reflects a broader effort among public figures to reclaim narratives around their health, particularly when misinformation proliferates.

While his return to music remains uncertain, his transparency has resonated with fans, drawing attention to resilience amid prolonged health battles. The incident also raises questions about patient advocacy and the need for clearer communication between medical providers and patients to prevent similar outcomes. As healthcare systems globally grapple with resource constraints, stories like Kunta Kinte’s serve as reminders of the human cost behind clinical oversights and the importance of equitable access to timely, safe care.