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Tony Ndiema’s younger brother shares an emotional tribute after his death
01st July, 2026 09:03 AM
The family of late Ohangla musician Tony Ndiema continues to mourn his passing, with his younger brother, Mike Msella, sharing an emotional tribute describing the deep bond they shared.
In a heartfelt message posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, Mike expressed the pain of losing not only a brother but also someone he considered his best friend, mentor and father figure.
His tribute came a day after the family confirmed the death of the popular Ohangla musician, whose real name was Anton Okoth Ochieng.
Brother speaks from the heart
Mike admitted that he was still struggling to come to terms with his brother’s death, saying it felt impossible to accept that someone he looked up to was no longer alive.
He described repeatedly calling Tony’s name while hoping for a response, only to be met with silence. “As your younger brother, I don’t even know what to say about you. I see you lying there. I called your name over and over, but you didn’t respond. I see people posting you everywhere on social media, yet I’m still in denial,” he wrote.
He went on to describe Tony as the strongest person he had ever known and said he never imagined a day when he would have to mourn him.
According to Mike, Tony had played many roles in his life beyond being an elder brother. “More than my brother, you were my best friend, my father and my teacher, the pillar of our house. I can’t say goodbye to you,and I will never say goodbye to you. I’m broken into pieces,” he added.
A touching Luo farewell
Mike also shared an emotional message in Luo, remembering his brother through their family lineage.
“Eiih Ndiema! Iniega Osiepa, Iniega Wuod Okinyo, Iniega Wuod Nyar Jane,” he wrote, which translates to: “Hey Ndiema! How are you doing? How are you, son of Okinyo? How have you been, son of Nyar Jane?”
In Luo culture, referring to someone by their parents or family lineage is a sign of respect, honour and deep affection.
“It will never be the same again,” he wrote.
Family had appealed for help
Mike’s emotional message comes just days after the family appealed to the public for financial assistance as Tony battled an illness. On June 29, 2026, the family announced that his condition had worsened and that he had been transferred to Oasis Hospital in Kisii for specialised treatment.
At the time, they revealed that the musician had lost the ability to walk and talk. “At the moment, Tony has lost the ability to walk and talk, and this has been a very difficult moment for his family, friends and everyone who cares deeply about him. We continue to pray and trust God for his healing and full recovery,” the family said.
Before the transfer, Tony had reportedly collapsed in Rongo and was first admitted to Doctor’s Plaza Hospital before being moved to Mediforte Hospital in Kisii. Doctors carried out several medical tests, including a CT scan, lung examinations and blood tests, while recommending an MRI scan that had been delayed due to financial challenges.
His death has left the Ohangla fraternity in mourning, with fellow musicians, fans and friends continuing to pay tribute to an artist remembered for his contribution to the genre. At the time of publication, the family had not announced the cause of death or details of the funeral arrangements.
