Uhuru, Kenyans mourn departed benga musician Kamaru
President Uhuru Kenyatta has condoled with the family, relatives and friends of legendary benga musician Joseph Kamaru who died on Wednesday night while undergoing treatment.
In his message of condolences, the president said Kamaru’s death is a big blow to the Kenyan music industry. He lauded the departed artiste for using his talent as a musician to address morality while giving the best in entertainment.
“It was a blessing for us as a country to have had such a talented artiste who played a big role in promoting the Kenyan brand of music. Indeed we will miss his educative music which was unique in many aspects,” said President Kenyatta in a statement to the press.
Nasa leader Raila Odinga also sent a message of condolences terming Kamaru’s death as the end of an era.
I have learnt of the passing of my friend and legendary musician Joseph Kamaru whose music inspired generations in central Kenya and beyond to reflect deeply on profound political, cultural and social issues. It is truly the end of an era. God rest his soul in peace.
— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) October 4, 2018
Deputy President William Ruto, on his part, described Kamaru as a father figure to many younger musicians whose talent he groomed.
Kamaru was a father figure to many musicians, whom he took under his wing, helped them record and publish their songs. His place in Kenya’s folklore is assured. We mourn a great musician. Condolences to his family, friends and the music fraternity. Rest In Peace.
— William Samoei Ruto (@WilliamsRuto) October 4, 2018
Kirinyaga governor Anne Waiguru described Kamaru was one of Kenya’s greatest musical icons and also an ambassador of Kikuyu culture.
“I fondly remember listening to some of his greatest hits like-caria ûngî, nuu ûcio and ke ngwîtîkîrie – as a young girl. He will be dearly missed,” she said.
My sincere condolences to Joseph Kamaru’s family and friends. May God comfort you and may His peace be your portion.#RIPKamaru@inooroke @TheStarKenya @dailynation @StandardKenya @citizentvkenya @kameme101
— Anne Waiguru (@AnneWaiguru) October 4, 2018
Twitter was awash with glowing tributes to the departed musician.
“When he released ‘Darling Ya Mwalimu’ in 1966, KNUT called a nationwide teachers’ strike and Parliament debated the controversial song.”
Joseph Kamaru found his beat early on in life and worked to perfecting it. #RIPKamaru
— Chairman (@DrGicharu) October 4, 2018
Joseph Kamaru: timeless, enduring. A perpetual folklore hero. Unfading philosopher king. A pioneer. A mentor. An inspiration. A teacher. Where come another? Shine on …Fare Thee Well son of Wanjirû … #RIPKamaru
— Kabando Wa Kabando (@Wakabando) October 3, 2018
Heart felt condolences to the family friends and fans of Joseph Kamaru. We celebrate his life as a legendary Kenyan musician. #RIPKamaru
— Hon. Jaguar (@RealJaguarKenya) October 3, 2018
Go well, Kamaru. You left us tune and lyrics, we will sing and dance to them.
Because you lived, sang, mentored and inspired. We will forever remember you.#RIPKamaru pic.twitter.com/Ji3FFE7eMU
— Dennis Itumbi, HSC (@OleItumbi) October 4, 2018
Fare thee well Kamaru.
Your legacy lives on.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends. #RIPKamaru pic.twitter.com/Ww3zQQBsbg— Churchill (@MwalimChurchill) October 4, 2018