De’Mathew funeral service underway in Gatanga

Mourners have already gathered in Gatanga, Murang'a, to say goodbye to Benga musician John De’ Mathew, who died last week in a road accident.

A funeral service is underway at Githambia Primary School in Mukurwe, Gatanga, before the musician is laid to rest. Residents started streaming in at the venue as early as 6am for the burial ceremony.   Also expected to attend the burial is President Uhuru Kenyatta and other political leaders, mostly from Central region.   Politics
De’Mathew played a key role in the Jubilee campaigns during the 2013 and 2017 General Election with his music, hence, many politicians are expected to attend his burial.   The event at Kenol town in Maragua subcounty was set up by the Talented Musicians and Composers Organisation dubbed Tamco.   De'Mathew was Tamco's Sacco chairman.   Murang'a Governor Mwangi Wa Iria said the county government has set aside Sh500,000 for De'Mathew's children.
Other donations included Kandara MP Alice Wahome, who pledged Sh100,000.
De'Mathew died in a road crash near Blue Post on the Thika-Kenol highway when his car hit a trailer from behind.
He died on arrival at Thika Nursing Home.