This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
On August 20, 2019, President Uhuru Kenyatta led a tribute to musician John DeMathew, who tragically died in a road accident. The President praised DeMathew's talent for using his music to teach life lessons and convey socio-economic and cultural messages, especially to the youth.
Deputy President William Ruto described DeMathew as an artist who mentored many aspiring musicians and campaigned for a platform to empower them. He was also remembered as a modern Kikuyu prophet by Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria.
Starehe MP Charles Kanyi, aka Jaguar, revealed that he was mentored by DeMathew to pursue his talent in music. Murang'a Governor Mwangi wa Iria and other leaders mourned the late musician, describing him as a hero who will be remembered for his dedication to educate the community through songs.
As the music industry mourns the loss of DeMathew, veteran music producer Ted Josiah called upon Content Management Organisations to come up with a welfare blueprint for artistes in the future. Machawood CEO Victor Muniafu decried the poor working conditions of artistes, highlighting the dangers they face on the roads.
