President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent a message of condolence and encouragement to the family, relatives, friends and fans of Kikuyu Benga musician John Ng’ang’a popularly known as John De Mathew who died in a gruesome road accident last on Sunday.
In his condolence message, President Kenyatta described De Mathew as a gifted musician who used his talent to entertain, nonetheless, mentored other upcoming Kenyan musicians.
“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. Indeed, we have lost an icon in the music industry. DeMathew championed and played a big role in preserving our cultural heritage,” the President said.
On the other hand, Deputy President William Ruto described De Mathew as a musician who mentored many aspiring and upcoming musicians and rallied for a platform for many.
“Deep condolences to the family, friends and fans of renowned musician John De Mathew. He used his talent to teach us life lessons and convey socio-economic and cultural messages, especially to the youth,” said Ruto.
“De Mathew was a great composer of Kikuyu lyrics, which carried undertones of societal ills, including alcoholism and promoting peace and cohesion in society.”
He was pronounced dead on arrival at Thika Nursing Home after being involved in a grisly road accident near Blue Post Hotel in Thika.
Confirming the incident, Thika Base Commander Elenah Wamuyu said De Mathew’s car rammed into a lorry near Blue Post Hotel.
The musician was driving alone when the accident occurred..
Until his demise, he was the chairperson of the newly-launched Tamco Sacco that aims to uplift the welfare of musicians.
