Heartbroken: Orengo pens moving tribute after Tony Ndiema’s death
By Katemarthason Okudo, July 1, 2026The death of Ohangla musician Tony Ndiema continues to draw tributes from leaders, fellow artistes and fans, with Siaya Governor James Orengo and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga joining many Kenyans in mourning the celebrated singer.
In separate messages shared on their Facebook pages on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the two governors expressed their condolences to Ndiema’s family, friends and supporters, describing his death as a great loss to the music industry and the Luo community.
Their tributes come a day after Ndiema’s family announced that the musician had passed away following an illness.
James Orengo remembers Ndiema
Governor James Orengo, in a message posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, described Ndiema’s death as a painful loss, saying the musician had made a significant contribution to the Luo creative industry through his music.
The governor noted that Ndiema’s songs had touched many lives and that his passing would leave a gap in the entertainment industry. “Heartbroken to hear about the sudden demise of Tonny Ndiema. This is another massive loss to the Luo creative economy and a heavy blow to the entire music fraternity,” Orengo wrote.
He also extended his condolences to everyone who knew the musician. “My deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans. We stand in solidarity with the music industry during this painful time. Rest in peace, Tonny. Your melody lives on,” he added.
Gladys Wanga sends condolences
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also mourned the musician. In a heartfelt message posted on her Facebook account on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, she remembered him as one of the artistes who helped keep Ohangla music alive through his performances.
She noted that Ndiema’s death had saddened both his home county and the wider entertainment industry. “Rangwe Constituency, Homa Bay County and the entire music and entertainment industry are mourning the sudden demise of Tonny Ndiema, a talented artist known for his classical Ohangla hits,” she wrote.
The Homa Bay governor further expressed sympathy to Ndiema’s loved ones during the difficult period. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and fans during this difficult time,” she added.
Family had appealed for medical support
The tributes come just days after Ndiema’s family appealed to the public for financial assistance before the death of the late Tony Ndiema; the musician battled a serious illness. In an update shared on June 29, 2026 the family revealed that his condition had worsened, forcing doctors to transfer him to Oasis Hospital in Kisii for specialised treatment.
At the time, they disclosed that Ndiema had lost the ability to walk and talk and remained in critical condition. Before the transfer, the musician had collapsed in Rongo and was first admitted to Doctor’s Plaza Hospital before being moved to Mediforte Hospital in Kisii.
According to the family, doctors carried out several medical examinations, including a CT scan, lung tests and blood tests. They also recommended an MRI scan, but financial challenges delayed the procedure.
Ohangla fraternity in mourning
Tony Ndiema, whose real name was Anton Okoth Ochieng, was widely recognised for his contribution to Ohangla music and had built a loyal fan base through his performances and recordings.
Since news of his death emerged on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, fellow musicians, leaders and fans have continued to flood social media with messages celebrating his life and legacy.
His passing has left a deep void in the Ohangla fraternity, with many remembering him not only for his music but also for the impact he made on the cultural and entertainment scene.
At the time of publication, the family had not released the cause of death or announced the funeral arrangements.