Gospel singer Hopekid lays father to rest in emotional Kibwezi burial
By Steve Ireri, February 1, 2026Kenyan gospel singer Simon Peter Wambua, popularly known as Hopekid’s father, was laid to rest in an emotional burial ceremony attended by close family members, friends, and colleagues from the gospel fraternity on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
The burial took place in Kibwezi, and in a video shared on Instagram by one of Hopekid’s friends, DK KwenyeBeats, the ceremony was marked by emotional breakdowns as family members struggled to come to terms with the painful reality that their father was no more.
In the video, members of the church that Hopekid’s father belonged to are seen singing sorrowful hymns as they surrounded his coffin just moments before it was lowered into a shallow, cemented grave.
In the clip, Hopekid is seen among the very first people to heap soil onto the grave, followed closely by his mother and other family members, as emotions continued to run high and grief overwhelmed those present.
In a post he shared after the burial, the gospel singer expressed hope that he would one day reunite with his father in eternity and prayed that God would grant him peaceful rest.
“RIP dad till we meet again,” he wrote.
The burial was attended by a host of Kenyan celebrities, particularly those from the gospel music industry who turned up to stand with the singer during the difficult moment.
Among the notable figures in attendance were gospel singer Mr Seed, who also assisted in heaping soil onto the grave, Instagram influencer Nicah The Queen, music producers DK KwenyeBeats and Marvo On The Beat, Kris Eroh Mazal, Denny C, Editor Ngatia and Teddy The Producer, among others.
Untimely demise
The ‘Testimony’ hitmaker broke the news of his father’s passing through an Instagram Story post on January 23, 2026.
He did not reveal much about the cause of death or provide further details, opting instead to share a black rose accompanied by a touching and emotional message.
In the message, he similarly expressed hope that he would meet his father again and prayed that he may find eternal peace.
“Dear Dad… till we meet again. Rest 12/21,” he wrote.
Following the announcement, fans flooded his direct messages and comment sections with words of comfort, encouragement, and prayers, urging him to remain strong during the painful period.
“Your kind words mean everything. 🙏 Much appreciated,” the singer commented as he responded to the overwhelming messages of support he received.