Achieng Abura Kenyan Afro-jazz singer Date of Birth: . Country: Kenya

1. Achien'g Abura: A Life in Music and Advocacy
2. Early Life and Education
3. Musical Journey
4. Advocacy and Activism
5. Awards and Recognition
6. Legacy and Impact

Achien'g Abura: A Life in Music and Advocacy

Achien'g Abura, a Kenyan singer renowned for her Afro-jazz, Afro-fusion, and gospel music, left an enduring legacy before her untimely passing.

Early Life and Education

Born in Eldoret, Kenya, Abura pursued a Master of Science degree in philosophy and environmental studies. Her passion for music was evident from a young age, and she embarked on a professional career with the release of her gospel album "I Believe" around 1990.

Musical Journey

Abura's musical repertoire expanded to include Afro-jazz in 2002, with the release of her album "Maisha." No stranger to collaborations, she featured former backup singer Emmy Kosgei on this project. Abura's powerful vocals could also be heard as the voice of Raven in the popular animated series "Tinga Tinga Tales."

Advocacy and Activism

Beyond her music, Abura was a vocal advocate for social justice. She served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and performed abroad, including in Spain. As part of the supergroup Divas of The Nile, she highlighted important issues at the Mundial Festival in Tilburg, Netherlands, in 2007.

Awards and Recognition

Abura's talent earned her several accolades. She shared the 2004 Kora Award for Best Female Artist - East Africa with Tsehaye Gebremariam of Ethiopia and was nominated for a Kisima Music Award in 2008 for her social responsibility efforts.

Legacy and Impact

Before her passing, Abura established an online fund for her son, Prince, who had a heart condition and sickle cell anemia. The fund received overwhelming support, enabling him to pursue his education. Tragically, Prince Abura passed away in 2021 while studying at Riara University.

Achien'g Abura's memory continues to inspire, reminding us of the transformative power of music and the importance of advocating for those in need.