The celebration of Kenya’s Mashujaa day (Heroes day) wound up with the tragic news that we had lost one of most iconic and celebrated musician Achieng Abura.
Abura passed on at the Kenyatta National Hospital where she had been admitted since 13th October. It has not been disclosed what ailed her and the cause of death. The artist had sent out some messages on her social media that all is not well with her health.
“I have lost over 50kgs in the last three years. Everything is hanging and weak. Walking is a problem with pains all over. Doctor says I must add 30kg then I lose it as I exercise and firm up. The irony of life. I was not even losing weight intentionally! I allowed life to get the better of me. Learn from my mistakes”.
Abura has been on the Kenya music scene for over 25 years, working as an Afro-Jazz, Afro-fusion and gospel artist. Her Debut album gospel titled ‘I Believe’ dropped in 1990. She went on to release albums like “Way Over Yonder’, ‘Sulwe’, ‘Maisha’, ‘Spirit of a warrior’ among other works. She also won a KORA award in 2004 for Best East Africa Female artist.
In 2008 Abura acted as a principal at the famed “Tusker Project Fame” which was a reality TV show aimed at finding a star in music across E.A. Abura was also took part in the successful kids TV animation series – Tinga Tinga Tales. She acted as the Crow on the voice overs.
Achieng Abura was very passionate about developing the local music industry. She called out for fair play in the media and was very vocal about artists getting equal play on air, established and upcoming.
Kenyans took to Twitter to air out their condolences and the messages of grief to the family. They even shifted the focus to Abura’s son who is battling with a case of sickle cell anaemia.
Sleep in infinite repose. And when you awaken, overwhelm the heavens with the musical thunder of your beautiful voice.#RIPAchiengAbura
— Wanja Kavengi (@WKavengi) October 20, 2016
A music legend she was, empowering & mentoring young musicians. My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends.#RIPAchiengAbura
— Chris Kirubi (@CKirubi) October 20, 2016
A true Musical LEGEND! A true SHUJAA! We will forever keep your memories in our HEARTS! Condolences to friends & family
#RIPAchiengAbura pic.twitter.com/y88HCA9sDg
— Jeff Koinange, MBS (@KoinangeJeff) October 20, 2016
At Kenyan Vibe we send our deepest condolences and wish the family strength during this trying times.
