Hundreds of people gathered on Saturday, September 14th, to celebrate the life of the late Ochoma, a local artist from Katakwi-Teso sub-region in the eastern part of the country.
John Robert Ochoma, commonly known as ‘Eyeki Yeki,’ born in 1972, was a resident of Obira village, Akoboi sub-county, Ngariam County in Katakwi District.
The chairperson of the Ilogir clan, Mr. Kenneth Obira, said the deceased left behind five children and a widow, Jenifer Amuge.
Ekode added that they will always converge on September 14th as a way of remembering Ochoma, who succumbed to a motorcycle accident while traveling to Continental Radio in Kumi to deliver his songs for promotion.
Among the songs he released were “Eyeki Yeki,” “Opombe,” “Iitunenete Itunga,” “Vitamin C,” “Arerengu,” and others.
The chief guest, the State Minister for Education and Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, through his representative, Hon. Obukui Jorem, expressed concern about how some politicians use artists without improving their well-being. He urged that this practice should stop.
Ogwang also encouraged musicians to avoid being exploited by individuals for personal gain.
In his message, Ogwang praised Ochoma for his creative ideas, which inspired many people in Teso to appreciate his music.
Obukui delivered a cash contribution of 2 million shillings to the family and urged media houses to continue promoting local artists to increase their popularity.
Cecilia Anyakoit, a candidate for the Woman MP seat for Katakwi District, contributed 500,000 shillings towards the thanksgiving prayers and praised the late Ochoma for his role in composing educational songs for the community and for local leaders’ campaigns.
Anyakoit, who has recently challenged the incumbent MP Jessica Alupo, the Vice President, has pledged to provide good leadership and service delivery to the people of Katakwi.
Among those who attended were Katakwi District LC5 Hon. Geoffrey Omolo, councillors, religious and clan leaders, artists, and the general public.
