The Kenyan music scene is in mourning following the tragic death of Shalkido, the Gengetone and Mugithi star who lost his life in a motorbike accident along Thika Road.
Born Kevin Mburu Kinyanjui, Shalkido, best known as a former member of the Sailors Gang, was declared brain dead at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital after sustaining severe injuries.
Comedian Terence Creative was among the first to express his heartbreak, describing Shalkido as a “comrade” who was destined for greatness. Terence, who had previously offered the artist advice and even a cash pledge when his financial struggles became public, wrote simply: “Rest in power, comrade. You were meant for greatness.”
Musician Bahati also joined in mourning, revealing that he had been in talks with Shalkido’s management about a possible collaboration just days before the tragedy. “We had plans,” Bahati shared. “He was ready to bounce back musically. Rest well, young king.”
Radio host Oga Obinna, who had recently hosted Shalkido on his show, struggled to come to terms with the news.
Having seen him just hours before the crash, Obinna shared photos and videos from their last meeting, expressing disbelief that life could change so fast. “We were laughing, talking about the future,” he posted. “Now I’m here writing rest in peace.”
“I’ve received the sad news of the passing of Gengetone artist Shalkido this evening, following a motorbike accident he was involved in over the weekend. A young and promising soul gone too soon, with dreams yet to be fulfilled.,” said Geoffrey Mosiria
From the Sailors camp, Peter Miracle Baby—Shalkido’s close friend and former bandmate—shared his pain in few but heavy words: “Heartbroken beyond words. Rest easy, brother.”
The two had shared not only musical success during the Gengetone wave but also personal challenges as they navigated fame and its aftermath.
Fans, too, poured out their grief online, with many lamenting how short and harsh Shalkido’s journey had been. Comments flooded timelines: “RIP Shalkido, na juzi amekua akiteseka mlikua mnamlenga,” one user wrote, expressing regret that the artist’s struggles had only drawn attention after his death. Another wrote, “This life has no balance — your time can be any time. Rest well, champ.”
In his final months, Shalkido had been candid about his difficulties. He had publicly appealed for help, revealing how financial hardship had forced him into odd jobs to make ends meet.
In response, comedian Eric Omondi, through his Sisi kwa Sisi initiative, had gifted Shalkido a motorbike to help him rebuild his life. Heartbreakingly, reports suggest that it was the same bike involved in the fatal crash.
Just hours before the accident, videos showed Shalkido in good spirits, enjoying the evening and laughing with friends. The footage has since circulated widely online .