This is the incredible story of a man whose life was completely transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. His name? Papa Kabene – though in his old days, some used to call him “Chief of the Bottle”. Yes, you heard that right! 

You see, Papa Kabene wasn’t just a drinker—he was practically the High Priest of Palm Wine. If you looked for him in the morning you’d find him either at the bar or sitting under a mango tree with a calabash of kindingi (our local brew), philosophizing about life with red eyes and an empty bottle. 

He used to be a village elder, deeply respected in the community—until the bottle began speaking louder than his wisdom. He had drunk so much that even his shadow staggered. People said he could smell kindingi from 200 meters away and identify its age by just one sip. 

But God, in His mercy, had a different plan. 

One day, something unusual happened. A group of missionaries passed through his village, led by a man full of the Holy Spirit and very allergic to lukewarm Gospel. The missionaries preached with fire, love, and boldness—and guess who stumbled into their gathering? Yes, Papa K! 

As they began to preach Jesus—the Deliverer, the Restorer, something broke inside Papa K’s heart. He was touched, convicted, and captivated. Right there, under the weight of God’s presence, he raised his trembling hand and said, “I want to give my life to Jesus. I’ve tasted every liquor, but I want to taste this Living Water.” 

That day, the Chief of the Bottle became a disciple of the Cross. He publicly confessed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He renounced alcohol with a passion and began evangelizing others—even those he used to drink with. Some say he now preaches like he used to drink: without moderation! 

His life today is a loud testimony that no one is too far gone for Jesus. Where sin abounded, grace abounded more.

So, if you ever hear someone say, “God cannot change people like me,” just tell them about Papa K—the man who traded his bottle for a Bible and never looked back!