Editor's Review

Gengetone artist Kevin Mburu Kinyanjui, alias Shalkido, died while receiving treatment following a tragic road accident along Thika Road on Sunday.

Gengetone artist Kevin Mburu Kinyanjui, alias Shalkido, died while receiving treatment following a tragic road accident along Thika Road on the morning of Sunday, October 5.  

The artist, who was involved in a crash between Githurai and Carwash, just before Roysambu, succumbed to his injuries after being declared brain-dead at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH).

The news of his passing was confirmed by comedian Oga Obinna, who had closely followed his condition since the accident.

According to reports, first responders who arrived at the scene shortly after the crash found Shalkido lying by the roadside with severe injuries. 

They administered first aid before rushing him to KUTRRH, where he was later admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The responders noted that the accident occurred in the early hours of the morning when the roads were relatively empty.

"There were no witnesses because it was boda boda riders who found him lying on the road. They stopped and called for rescue, who then dispatched us at about 4:42 am," a responder told the press. 

Obinna later shared details of the accident on social media, explaining that he had spoken with Shalkido’s father and confirmed that the artist had been admitted to the hospital in critical condition. 

File image of Shalkido

He revealed that getting accurate medical information at first proved difficult, but the attending doctors later disclosed the state of the musician’s injuries.

"He has internal bleeding in the brain. It is in a lot of places, and so it is also swollen, meaning that it is inoperable, and they cannot do anything about it.

"The main concern is the brain; the neurosurgeon saw him, and there is nothing they can do for now. They said it is very severe," he explained.

Obinna described how surreal the situation felt, recalling that he had been with Shalkido shortly before the accident occurred. 

In his video, he thanked the first responders for their swift action and urged drivers to exercise greater caution on the roads, especially during late-night hours when visibility is poor.

Shalkido’s death marks another devastating loss for Kenya’s entertainment industry.

In July, comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as KK Mwenyewe and famed for his impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, passed away.

According to reports, KK Mwenyewe passed away at Kiambu Level 4 Hospital after a short illness.

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah was among the first public figures to pay tribute to the young comedian, praising his courage in using comedy to unite and educate.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a young and talented comedian whose voice resonated with the spirit of a generation.

"Through satire and art, Mr. KK courageously held a mirror to society, using humor not to divide, but to awaken, educate, and unite. His ability to capture the political moment with sharp wit and authenticity was both refreshing and powerful,” he said.

Omtatah noted that Kenya has not only lost a comedian but a brave patriot, further sending his condolences to KK's family and friends.

"Kenya has lost not just a comedian, but a cultural commentator and a brave young patriot. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and the entire creative community. May his soul rest in peace, and may his light continue to inspire courage and creativity in those he leaves behind," he concluded.