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Kenyan TikToker Jesse Pianist dies days after emotional appeal for Ksh3M hospital funds
01st August, 2026 10:15 PM
Kenyan TikToker and pianist Jesse Owino, popularly known as MC Jesse, has died days after an emotional appeal was made for financial support to help him access specialised cancer treatment.
The news of his death was announced by his friend Abdul in a sad TikTok video on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
Abdul confirmed that Jesse died in Kitengela and revealed that plans had already been laid to transfer his body to the KU Referral Hospital mortuary.
“Hello guys, we have the saddest news today. Our brother and our friend Jesse has just passed on. May his soul rest in peace. The body is being transferred from Kitengela and it is being transferred to Kenyatta Referral Hospital,” Abdul announced.
Abdul went on to appeal to Jesse’s friends and members of the public who are close to his family to stand with them and offer support following his death.
“So guys, keep praying for the family. Those people who are close with the family, please go over there and be with them,” he said.
The friend also revealed that he was in Nakuru at the time he received the devastating news but was preparing to travel to Nairobi to join others in mourning Jesse.
“I am in Nakuru now, and I will be in Nairobi in a few. May his soul rest in peace. It is so painful,” Abdul added.
As he struggled to come to terms with the death, Abdul remembered Jesse as a fighter who had battled through his illness with determination.
“Jesse really fought. He fought and it was a good fight. Please, God, also give me strength,” he said.
Treatment appeal
Jesse’s death comes just days after an appeal was shared seeking to raise Ksh3 million to facilitate his travel to India for specialised cancer treatment.
According to the fundraising appeal, Jesse had been diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a form of liver cancer.
The appeal stated that the cancer had become metastatic, meaning it had spread beyond its original location to other parts of the body.
“Jesse has been diagnosed with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), a form of liver cancer. Sadly, the cancer is metastatic, meaning it has spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream,” the appeal stated.
The organisers said the fundraising drive was aimed at helping Jesse travel to India to seek specialised medical care and give him what they described as a fighting chance at recovery.
“In light of this, we are seeking financial support to enable Jesse to travel to India for specialised treatment and a fighting chance at recovery,” the appeal read.
The public were urged to contribute whatever amount they could towards the Ksh3 million target, with the organisers noting that even small contributions could help support Jesse’s treatment journey.
“Any contribution, no matter how small, will go a long way in supporting this journey. We also appreciate your prayers and sharing this appeal with others,” they added.
The fundraising poster, dated April 19, 2026, listed Jesse Owino as the beneficiary and provided an M-Pesa number, 0741442507, for well-wishers wishing to contribute.
Popular Mathare North SDA Church pianist
Jesse was known to many Kenyans not only through his presence on TikTok but also for his musical talent as a pianist.
He was particularly popular for playing the piano at Mathare North SDA Church, where he was associated with the church’s music ministry.
His name also appeared alongside the Mathare North SDA Church Choir in music-related content, with his contribution to the church’s musical activities making him a familiar figure among members and followers of the church.
Author
Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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