Kenyans mourn songstress Achieng Abura. Here’s her moving final message

Achieng Abura, a Kenyan Afro Jazz musician, peace and social justice advocate and environmentalist is dead.

She had been undergoing treatment at Nairobi’s Kenyatta National Hospital since 13th October 2016. Abura died today at 6pm.

On 7th October she posted a message on her Facebook profile hinting that she was unwell. “I have lost over 50 kgs in the last three years. Everything is hanging and weak. Walking is a problem with pains all over. Doctor says I must add 30 kgs then lose it as I exercise and firm up. The irony of life. I was not even losing weight intentionally! I allowed life to get the better of me. Learn from my mistakes,” she wrote.

Many Kenyans have taken to the social media to mourn their star.

Suzzana Owiyo, a fellow musician and Abura’s friend who was shocked to learn of her death wrote: “Fare thee well my dear comrade, you have fought the fight, you have finished the race. Till we meet again! #RIPAchiengAbura.”

Sauti Sol, a Kenyan Afro pop band described Abura’s death as “a big blow to our music industry.”

“Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Achieng Abura,” they said.

Blogger Robert Alai Onyango said he was “extremely saddened to learn of the passing on of angel Lydia Achieng Abura. May your soothing and joyful spirit Rest In Peace.”

Vicmass LuoDollar, a Kenyan rapper said Abura tirelessly fought for the musicians’ welfare and for them to be paid royalties.

“May her soul rest in peace. She was a true mentor,” he said, adding that her death has left big gap in Kenya’s music industry.