Veteran musician Gurumo to be buried today in home village,read more...

 Muhidin Mwalimu ‘Gurumo’ performs with Msondo Ngoma Music band in 2009. Gurumo died on Sunday in Dar es Salaam.

Dar es Salaam. Veteran musician Muhidin Mwalimu “Gurumo”, 74, who died on Sunday at Muhimbili National Hospital, will be laid to rest today at his home village of Masaki in Kisarawe District, Coast Region.

His son, Mr Abdallah Muhidin, said Gurumo’s friends had requested that he be buried today instead of yesterday to enable them to bid farewell to him.

“We respect his friends’ request. He will now be buried tomorrow (today) in our home village,” said Abdallah, adding that prayers had been held for the late musician at his home in Makuburi, Dar es Salaam.

One of his daughters, Mariam, said Gurumo began feeling unwell on Thursday after arriving home from Masaki Village, where they had gone to greet relatives.

He was admitted to Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH)on Friday after his condition worsened. Gurumo died at MNH on Sunday.

He leaves behind a widow and six children.

President Jakaya Kikwete sent his condolences yesterday to the Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Dr Fenella Mukangara.

He said the nation had lost a musical colossus, adding that his contribution to music and culture in general would always be remembered.

The National Arts Council (Basata) sent its condolences to Gurumo’s family, friends and the music fraternity.

“Basata has been shocked by Gurumo’s death, which has robbed Tanzanian music of a pivotal figure. Gurumo has departed when his contribution is still needed in Tanzanian music,” Basata said in a statement signed by Executive Secretary Godfrey Mngereza.

Tanzania Dance Music Association chairman Kassim Mapili said Gurumo’s death was a big blow to the music industry, noting that he was nurturing young talent following his retirement last year.