Familly of late ‘Rafiki Pesa’ hitmaker Shari Martin appeal for Sh 800k for burial

Legendary singer Shari Martin best known for his timeless hit Rafiki Pesa will be laid to rest Saturday next week on 17th August 2024 in Ngao Village, Tana River County.
To give a be-fitting send-off, the family of the late has drawn a budget of Sh800,000 to cater for the burial expenses.

A WhatsApp group has already been created where the family is appealing for contributions to support it in planning the burial.
Matthew Komora, a family member, updated Martin’s friends about the burial.
“Family and friends are meeting in Chokaa, Kangundo Road-Nairobi at Mzee Matthew Komora’s place, daily as from 1600hrs. A budget of Kshs. 800, 000 has been agreed upon as our Shujaa was a public figure, and giving him a befitting send-off is core.” Komora shared on the group.

The singer passed away on August 2, 2024, at the age of 54 while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
The sad news was confirmed by Martin’s close friend and fellow artist, Pauline, who is assisting with the burial arrangements.

According to Pauline who picked up calls by  Nairobi News placed to Martin’s known phone number, the singer fell ill on July 27, 2024, and was rushed to hospital, where he was diagnosed with pneumonia.
“He was recovering well and was supposed to be discharged. But he developed breathing difficulties. Unfortunately, he did not make it and passed away on August 2, 2024. We later learned that he had been battling the condition for a while and had not sought any medical attention until it became severe.”

Shari Martin is remembered for his significant contribution to the Kenyan music scene, particularly his Rafiki Pesa, which resonated with many for its powerful message.

In an interview with Nation in February this year, Martin reflected on the inspiration behind the hit record Rafiki Pesa, released in 1998.
“I was very young and working as a chef then. I worked for about 35 years in the hotel industry. I used to see nuns coming with fathers and staying there. They would spend about two months there and then say they had been on a retreat. I realized that was dangerous. I saw the same thing happening with men who instead of bringing their families, came with their girlfriends instead. HIV infection was also very prevalent at the time, and I would interact with so many sick people. That is how my song was inspired—to teach men to spend more time with their families. I did not do much to promote that song.”