Northern Uganda music legend Beniman succumbs to cancer

DEATH | CANCER | NORTHERN UGANDA

Northern Uganda musician Beniman on Wednesday passed on at Mulago Hospital, following months of battling with prostate cancer.

His longtime friend Easybash Maacha confirmed the death to the New Vision, saying Beniman who had been admitted at the Uganda Cancer Institute on Monday last week breathed his last at 6:13am.

"The day before yesterday, Ben told me he needs to rest and asked me to stop the people who were coming to see him. Little did I know that he was talking about eternal rest," Easybash said.

His last words: "This pain is too much my brother."

Beniman whose real name was Benard Ogwang was widely celebrated and respected in Northern Uganda for having elevated Luo music to the national stage.

His songs like Show me the way, Never stop hustling and Badmind which he did with Sheebah endeared him to fans in Northern Uganda and beyond. 

"He died a legend. He did a lot for Luo music."

Easybash said the family is still discussing burial arrangements which are likely to be lowkey given the prevailing restrictions on gatherings. 

Beniman is survived by two children, a boy and a girl. 

According to Easybash, Beniman had over 800 songs and he only wishes fans celebrated him in life as much as they are doing now that he is dead. 

"We should learn to support our people when they can still feel the love. Today, I have received over 500 calls and I can only wonder about the difference this could have made if such concern was given when he was still alive."

Easybash who is also the coordinator of artists in Northern Uganda and LC 5 councilor representing workers in Oyam District, has been a close friend to the deceased for over five years.