This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
July 1, 2020
Bob Collymore, the late Safaricom CEO, was a man of many passions, but music was one that stood out. His love for classical music and its transformative power is a testament to his dedication to promoting the arts in Kenya.
Ms. Njoroge, the Executive Director of The Art of Music Foundation, recalls meeting Collymore at the Safaricom Classical Fusion concert in Mombasa in 2010. She was struck by his enthusiasm for music and his willingness to learn about the Kenyan music scene.
Collymore's interest in music led him to establish the Safaricom Youth Orchestra (SYO) in 2014. The orchestra was a brainchild of Collymore's, who was inspired by a youth orchestra he saw perform in Sweden. He wanted to create a similar project in Kenya, one that would bring together children from all walks of life and provide them with the opportunity to learn and grow through music.
The SYO has made a significant impact on the Kenyan classical music landscape, with its members raising the standards of classical music and performing at various events, including the annual Kenya Music Festival and the Nairobi Orchestra.
Collymore's legacy extends beyond the SYO, however. He was also a key supporter of the Ghetto Classics program, which brings music to children in informal settlements. The program, which started in 2008, has provided a platform for children to learn and express themselves through music.
Collymore's relationship with the children involved in the Ghetto Classics program was particularly special. He was a mentor, a friend, and an adopted father to many of them, and his influence continues to be felt in their lives and music.
Ms. Njoroge recalls Collymore's last conversation with her, just two days before his passing. He was still concerned about the well-being of the children and was proud of the progress they had made.
