Days after the tragic loss of Kenya’s beloved Benga artist Princess Jully, her family has revealed the cause of her death.
Princess Jully, whose real name is Lilian Auma Aoko, known for her powerful music that addressed societal issues like HIV/AIDS, passed away on the afternoon of October 12, 2024, at the Migori County Referral Hospital.
Her son, Walter Oguda, disclosed that Princess Jully succumbed to multiple organ failure after a prolonged illness.
“She had been sick for months, and it began with kidney failure before her heart also gave in,” Oguda said.
“Despite a brief period where she seemed to be recovering, her condition suddenly deteriorated on Saturday, and she left us at 4 pm,” he added.
For much of August, the family had been seeking prayers from friends and fans as Princess Jully’s health worsened, and she was moved to the High Dependency Unit (HDU) at Migori Hospital.
Although she showed some signs of improvement in her final week, her health rapidly declined in her last hours.
Oguda, who serves as Director of the Press Unit for Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko, described his mother as a fighter who never gave up.
“She was a great woman of valor, always ensuring we got an education despite her lack of formal schooling,” he said.
“Even in illness, she fought gallantly and was on the verge of being discharged. We don’t understand what happened at the last minute.”
The family’s disclosure comes as an outpouring of tributes continues from across the country.
Fans have expressed shock and sorrow at the death of the iconic musician, whose hit song “Dunia Mbaya” became an anthem during the HIV/AIDS epidemic that ravaged the Nyanza region and beyond.
Oguda also shared a glimpse into his mother’s musical genius.
“Unlike other artists, my mother didn’t need to write her lyrics down. She would leave home, head to the studio, and record from the heart, producing hit after hit without referring to anything,” he said.
Princess Jully, the youngest of nine children, grew up in the village of Macalder in South Nyanza.
Her song “Dunia Mbaya” (The World is Evil), which warned about the dangers of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, is remembered as one of her most impactful contributions.
The song not only showcased her talent but also addressed the serious health issues affecting the country at the time.
Though the family mourns the loss of a mother, the nation mourns the loss of a legend.
Related: Oscar Sudi Mourns Princess Jully’s Death, Celebrates Her Fight Against HIV Stigma
