Former Tusker Project Fame principal and singer Achieng’ Abura has died in Kenyatta Hospital.
The Star of Kenya reports that the afro-jazz musician was being treated for depression and gastritis at the hospital’s private wing.
Abura had kidney problems and her last post on Facebook revealed that she had health complications.
“I have lost over 50kgs 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.”
Uganda was represented in the academy by songbird Juliana Kanyomozi who was part of the judges panel and had two Tusker Project Fame winners in Davis Ntare and Esther Nabaasa, but it is Naava Grey who appeared in the second season who has achieved greater music success.
The Nteredde singer mourned Abura. “RIP ‘Principal Achieng’ like we would address u while in the academy for Tusker Project Fame 2.. MAY GOD REST UR SOUL IN PEACE…,” Naava posted on her Facebook wall.
The Star reports that songstress leaves behind a 23-year-old son who was due to be flown outside Kenya for treatment after undergoing a blood transfusion earlier this week, as he suffers from sickle cell and a heart condition.
“Sad! Great music soul. I remember meeting her at the 2004 Koras in SA and her stern stance as the Principal of the Tusker Project Fame Academy,” veteran arts journalist Moses Serugo eulogised her.
May her soul rest in peace.