This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
On August 18, 2019, President Kenyatta sent a message of condolence to the family and friends of John Ng'ang'a, a renowned Kikuyu benga singer popularly known as John DeMathew, who tragically passed away in a road accident.
DeMathew, a gifted musician, used his talent to entertain, educate, and mentor upcoming artistes, and his music played a big role in promoting African cultural heritage.
"As a nation, we were privileged to have had such a brilliant artiste who played a big role in promoting our African cultural heritage through his music," said President Kenyatta.
Deputy President William Ruto also paid tribute to DeMathew, describing him as a great composer of Kikuyu lyrics that carried undertones of societal ills, including alcoholism and promoting peace and cohesion in society.
DeMathew died on Sunday night after his car was involved in a grisly road accident near Blue Post Hotel in Thika, where he was coming from a Harambee in support of fellow musician Peter Kigia at Metro Bar in Thika.
