Afro-pop singer Chika waNamibia has died

Namibian afro-pop musician Immanuel Kamati, popularly known as Chika WaNamibia, has died aged 43.

Oshana police deputy commissioner Frederick Ndjadila has confirmed that Kamati’s body was found on 19 October in a lake behind the University of Namibia at Oshakati, after he went missing on 4 August.

“The reason behind his death remains inconclusive. His body was found in water in a poor state but without visible injuries or fractures. His samples have been taken to the National Forensic Laboratory for toxicology tests,” Ndjadila says.

A close relative says Kamati was sick before his disappearance and had been admitted to a nearby hospital.

He is survived by three children, his brothers and sister.

Musician Sebron ‘Mbuku’ Niinyandu describes Kamati as a hard-working, humble artist, who loved people.

“It’s unfortunate to lose such a great musician in that way. Kamati was very neat, calm, and supportive of other artists. As artists, we must stand together and mobilise when something is troubling us,” he says.

Kamati, born in July 1982 in Angola, was famous for his soulful voice. His hit tracks ‘Oshiponga Nayi’ and ‘Oshihomo’ gave him a reputation in the northern Namibia.

He also composed ‘Ondjokonona’ to honour founding president Sam Nujoma.

Before fame found him, Kamati was a security officer.

He then became a professional musician and performed at different events in the nothern regions, especially the Oshana region.

Kamati was laid to rest at Othingo village, west of Oshakati last Saturday.

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