This archive report was first published on 20 July 2020.
On July 20, 2020, the East African entertainment scene mourned the loss of Papa Shirandula, a renowned TV actor, who was buried in his rural home in Nanderema village, Funyula Constituency, Busia County.
The ceremony, which was a stark contrast to the actor's popularity, was attended by less than 50 people, including family members, due to COVID-19 restrictions imposed by the Ministry of Health.
According to Dr. David Mukabi, the Busia County COVID-19 emergency response team coordinator, the decision to limit attendance was made to adhere to the guidelines and curb the spread of the coronavirus disease.
Papa Shirandula, whose real name was Charles Bukeko, died on Saturday morning at Karen Hospital after a short illness. He had tested positive for COVID-19 and was allowed to isolate himself at home before developing breathing difficulties on Friday night.
His father, Mr. Cosmas Bukeko, expressed his disappointment at not being able to give his son a decent send-off due to the pandemic. Nick Wafula, the actor's brother, eulogized him as a pillar of their family.
The body of Papa Shirandula arrived at Nanderema village at 3 am on Monday and was buried minutes after 8 am, in accordance with the strict guidelines of the Health ministry.
