The country’s entertainment fraternity was shocked with news of the sudden death of renowned comedian and musician Hussein Ramadhani Mkiety, better known by his stage name ‘Sharo Milionea,’ previously ‘Sharobaro.’
‘Sharo Milionea’ died in a road accident in Muheza, Tanga on Monday night when his car rammed into a roadside tree. He was reportedly on his way to his home village to visit his parents.
Tanga Regional Police Commander, Constantine Massawe, confirmed the death of the up and coming actor-cum-musician, saying the deceased, who was alone inside the car, died after sustaining serious injuries in the mishap.
Following the news of Hussein’s death, people from all walks of life expressed their grief over the passing away of the young artiste. Premier League club Simba issued a statement expressing shock over Hussein’s untimely death.
Simba Chairman Ismail Aden Rage described Hussein’s death as a loss of an “incredible entertainer.” “It is with great sorrow that we have received the sad news of the sudden and untimely passing of a renowned film and music artiste, Hussein Ramadhani Mkiety.
“On behalf of Simba and myself, I would like to send my condolences to the deceased’s family, relatives and friends for this big loss,” mourned Rage, who also presides as Tabora Urban legislator.
The president of the Tanzania Film Federation (TAFF), Simon Mwakifamba offered his condolences saying: “We loved him a lot but God loved him more, our prayers are with the family of the deceased, may the Almighty God give them strength and courage to bear all this.” Actor Steve Mangere alias ‘Steve Nyerere,’ was saddened that Hussein left so soon.
“It hurts because he had just started enjoying success…he was too young to die, he’s a big loss but there is nothing we can do, we better leave it to God,” said Steve. Comedian Mussa Yusuf ‘Kitale,’ who was quite close to Hussein having worked together in several comedian movies, seemed shaken with the loss.
Kitale said: “I am still absorbing the news. It’s difficult to digest that he has passed away. I feel a tremendous personal sense of loss.” Airtel-Tanzania Public Relations Manager Jackson Mbando, who used the comedian in promotional advertisements, said with Hussein’s demise the entertainment industry has lost a talented actor.
Hussein starred in a malaria-themed film titled Chumo. The film follows the story of Juma (Hussein), Amina and Yustus as they make choices and sacrifices, with unforeseen consequences.
All have their wishes and dreams in an intriguing story of love, ambition, determination and malaria. The film won several international awards, including best Short Narrative award at the Northwest Projections Film Festival in Bellingham and Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), ZIFF Award for Best Director and Best Actress.
Hussein showed off his multi-talented skills after he ventured into music and released a couple of tracks including ‘Chuki Bure’ which he featured Dully Sykes, Changanya Changanya (feat. Ali Kiba) and Sharo Hataki (feat. Richard Mavoko). According to reports, Hussein’s remains were due to be laid to rest in Tanga.