The death of Ohangla musician Tony Ndiema has sparked a candid reaction from singer and entrepreneur Akothee, who has questioned the level of support Luo artistes receive while they are still alive.
Tony Ndiema passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, while receiving treatment at Oasis Hospital in Kisii after battling an illness.
Following the news of his death, Akothee took to social media, where she lamented what she described as a tendency to celebrate musicians more after their deaths than during their careers.
‘Famous After Death’
In her post, Akothee claimed that artists often receive greater recognition and appreciation after they have passed away.
“Welcome to the Luo community, where you become famous after your death. Luos mourn the artists more than they celebrate or support their artists,” she wrote.
The singer also questioned why people seemed to unite during funerals but failed to support musicians while they were building their careers.
She wondered why communities rally together in mourning yet fail to offer the same level of encouragement to artists striving to succeed.
Akothee Admits She Didn’t Know Tony Ndiema
Akothee’s remarks prompted mixed reactions online, with some social media users asking whether she had been familiar with Tony Ndiema before his passing.
Responding to one follower, she admitted that she did not personally know the late singer or his music.
“I don’t know him, nor have I heard of him. I dance to a lot of Luo music, probably I have bumped into his music, but I honestly don’t know him. There is no crime in that,” she said.
Tony Ndiema’s Musical Journey
Born Anton Okoth Ochieng Miuga, Tony Ndiema was an emerging force in the Ohangla music scene.
Raised in Nairobi’s Kariobangi estate, he ventured into music after financial challenges prevented him from pursuing further education beyond secondary school.
He later became the leader of the BBR Band, blending traditional Ohangla rhythms with Rhumba influences to create a distinctive sound. His latest single, Chichi, was released just weeks before his death.
Tributes Continue to Pour In
As news of his passing spread, fellow musicians, entertainers and fans continued to pay tribute to the late artist.
Ohangla star Prince Indah described Ndiema as a brother, friend and colleague whose contribution to the industry would not be forgotten.
Actress Sandra Dacha also mourned the singer, calling his death a huge loss to the Ohangla fraternity.
Media personality and Lang’ata MP Jalang’o shared a brief but emotional message, writing: “Go well brother… Tony! Sing for them in heaven!!”
Tony Ndiema’s death came after his family revealed that his condition had deteriorated, leaving him unable to speak or walk as he underwent treatment.
He is remembered as one of the rising talents who helped preserve and modernise the Ohangla genre for a new generation of listeners.