Family, friends, and members of Kenya’s entertainment industry gathered on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Matangi, Kimbo in Ruiru, Kiambu County, to pay their final respects to the late Gengetone and Mugithi artist Shalkido Ga Cucu, whose real name was Paul Koigi Mungai.
The body left Kenyatta University Teaching, Research, and Referral Hospital Mortuary early in the morning and was received in Kimbo by hundreds of Gen Z fans, artists, and mourners who came to celebrate his short but impactful life. The atmosphere was heavy with grief and disbelief as tributes poured in for the talented young musician who had touched many lives through his music and authenticity.
Among those in attendance were comedian Oga Obinna, who had come to Shalkido’s aid in his final days after the artist publicly appealed for help. Also present was gospel artist Guardian Angel, alongside a host of Mugithi stars including Samidoh, Waithaka wa Jane, Tony Young, Mike Rua, 90K, and many others who performed heartfelt tributes in his honor.
However, Peter Miracle Baby, Shalkido’s close friend and former bandmate from Sailors Gang, was notably missing from the funeral. Unconfirmed reports indicated that he was unwell and had been rushed to the hospital.
Chuma Moto, the journalist behind the viral interview that shed light on Shalkido’s struggles, also attended the funeral. He emotionally recounted how he first saw Shalkido’s cry for help on Instagram and decided to tell his story to the world. Speaking during the ceremony, Chuma Moto urged the youth to remain hopeful and positive, warning against constantly speaking about death — noting that Shalkido often talked about dying, a habit he had tried to discourage.
After touching tributes and emotional performances, Shalkido was finally laid to rest, marking the end of a promising life and career that was tragically cut short.
As the crowd dispersed, one message remained clear — Kenya had lost a rising star whose light, though brief, will never be forgotten.
🕊️ Rest in peace, Paul Koigi Mungai — Shalkido Ga Cucu — your voice will forever echo through the hearts of your fans.
