The Kenyan music industry is reflecting on a significant loss following the passing of Hamza Aweso. Esther Akoth, the celebrated musician and entrepreneur better known as Akothee, shared the news of his death with her millions of followers.
In an emotional social media post, Akothee credited Aweso, a filmmaker known to many as ‘Welo’, as a foundational figure in her professional life. She described him as the driving force behind the visual success of her music.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Akothee’s announcement was marked by deep personal grief. She shared a photograph of herself with Aweso to accompany her message. The singer used both English and Swahili to express the weight of her loss.
Akothee Mourns Hamza Aweso Welo Death // Facebook
”
The man behind my music career 💔 Welo, you have hurt me so much. Truly so much.
”
She concluded her tribute with a message of peace, writing, “Rest, that was a journey enough to end. It is well, my love.”
The Filmmaker Behind the Hits
Hamza Aweso was a filmmaker whose work helped define the aesthetic of Akothee’s brand. In the Kenyan music scene, high-quality music videos are essential for commercial success.
Akothee is known for her vibrant, high-budget productions that often showcase the beauty of East Africa.
By identifying Aweso as the man behind her career, Akothee highlights the vital role that behind-the-scenes creatives play in the industry. Filmmakers like Aweso are responsible for the storytelling and visual appeal that allow artists to reach international audiences.
Entrepreneurship and Influence
Beyond her music, Akothee is one of Kenya’s most prominent entrepreneurs. She manages various businesses, including Akothee Safaris. Her influence in the region is significant, with a massive digital footprint.
The loss of Hamza Aweso is a blow to the creative community in Kenya. As a filmmaker, his legacy remains in the music videos and visual content he produced during his career.
Akothee’s
public mourning has brought attention to the deep bonds formed within the music industry. While the singer is often the face of the brand, her tribute serves as a reminder of the collaborators who make such success possible.
Fans and colleagues have since joined the singer in offering their condolences. The focus remains on celebrating the “journey” that Akothee and Aweso shared throughout her rise to stardom.
