This archive report was first published on 12 September 2019.
On September 10, 2019, Kenya lost a national treasure when veteran musician Laban Juma Toto breathed his last at the Kenyatta National Hospital, where he was undergoing head surgery.
He was 70 years old.
Laban Juma Toto was a popular musician known for his song ‘FC Gor Mahia’, which was used as the club’s anthem.
According to Juma Odemba HSC, the publicity secretary for the Kenya Musicians Union, the news of Laban Juma Toto’s passing was confirmed on Tuesday, September 10.
‘We have just received confirmation of the passing away of Laban Juma Toto chairman of KEMU we are awaiting further details from the immediate family before we release the official notice,’ Juma Odemba HSC revealed.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga mourned the rhumba singer as a gifted and prolific musician.
‘The death of legendary rhumba singer Juma Toto has robbed the country, Africa and the music industry of one of its most gifted and prolific musicians,’ Raila Odinga said.
He added, ‘Juma Toto’s track record leaves no doubt that he was a creative icon. Few artists are talented enough to live so long through their sounds and electrifying live performances.’
