Kenyan rap star Octopizzo, born Henry Ohanga, is mourning the death of his close friend and longtime manager, Vick Ongaya.
Ongaya passed away after a long battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a rare disease that weakens the body’s muscles by damaging nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Taking to social media, the Ivo Ivo hitmaker shared a deeply emotional message, describing Ongaya as more than just a manager — a mentor, friend, and brother who shaped his entire musical journey.
Octopizzo revealed that Ongaya was the first person to believe in his talent when many doubted his potential. Since 2009, Ongaya worked behind the scenes to build the Octopizzo brand, guiding the rapper’s career from the streets of Kibera to international recognition.
“He saw something in me when even I wasn’t sure I could make it. His vision and faith gave me direction and strength. Vick wasn’t just my manager; he was family,” Octopizzo wrote in his tribute.
The rapper also announced that burial preparations are underway, estimating the cost at around KSh 1.5 million. He appealed to friends, fans, and well-wishers to offer prayers, support, and contributions to help give Ongaya a dignified farewell.
The news of Ongaya’s death has sparked an outpouring of sympathy from fans and fellow artists, who praised him for his role in shaping Kenya’s hip-hop scene.
For Octopizzo, the loss marks the end of a partnership built on trust and shared dreams — one that helped transform his life and career. As the music community mourns, many continue to celebrate Ongaya’s legacy as a visionary who believed in the power of Kenyan talent.
It is high time now we join hands together and send our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
By Newshub