There was massive pouring of admiration and bereavement from Murang’a residents and leaders following the death of renowned musician, John Ng’ang’a commonly known as De Mathew near Blue Post Hotel along Thika Highway on Sunday night.
Governor Mwangi wa Iria has termed the death of De Mathew as a big loss to his family and people of Murang’a at large who has been of great help especially to upcoming musicians who have learnt a lot from De Mathew’s experience in the music industry spanning more than 20 years.
“De Mathew was a legend in his own ways and he will be remembered for the many special life changing songs and entertainment but more so for his effort to unify musicians to form a sacco,” said Wa Iria.
Formation of the Sacco, the governor said, was a great move by musicians from central region, saying De Mathew has been serving as its chairman.
“Early this year, De Mathew together with other musicians opted to establish a Sacco, and so far the group had acquired land,” added Wa Iria.
The governor termed De Mathew as a brave musician who was always ready to face any challenges head on and his unifying character would be missed by his colleagues and friends.
The 50- year old musician was pronounced dead at Thika Nursing Home to which he was rushed after his vehicle rammed onto a stationary lorry.
The musician was on his way home after he attended a fund raising function to aid treatment of the daughter of another renowned musician, Peter Kigia.
Fans and residents of Murang’a eulogized De Mathew as a vibrant musician who has dominated benga music for more than two decades.
“It was very sad to learn of his death. Kikuyu music industry has felt the pinch of losing such a legend. He was a man with humility and thought of the welfare of his fellow musicians,” said Joseph Kamau, Murang’a resident.
The Mathioya MP, Peter Kimari in his tribute said Murang’a county and the whole country have lost such a vibrant, energetic and finest musician whose talent inspired many.
Kimari said De Mathew’s hit songs will remain relevant for many decades to come, saying his lyrics were entertaining and educative.
The Murang’a County Women Representative, Sabina Chege said she saw De Mathew grow up in person and in the music industry.
“It’s with humility that we accept God’s will for he was still present and on His throne when the accident happened. Fare thee well my friend,” Chege wrote on her twitter handle.
By Bernard Munyao
