The Kenyan music scene is in mourning following the death of Kevin Mburu Kinyanjui, popularly known as Shalkido. The artist passed away hours after being pronounced brain dead, following a severe motorcycle accident on Thika Road between Githurai and Carwash near Roysambu.
Accident and Hospitalization
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, October 5, 2025, as Shalkido was traveling to Nairobi after performing in Thika. Emergency responders rushed him to Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit with critical injuries.
Medical Details and Brain Death
Doctors confirmed that Shalkido suffered severe internal brain injuries, resulting in brain death. Unlike a coma, brain death is permanent and legally recognized as death. Modern medical interventions, such as ventilators, can maintain the appearance of life temporarily, but they cannot reverse the condition.
Specialized neurological tests, including reflex assessments and the apnea test, were conducted to confirm the diagnosis. Shalkido also sustained a serious injury to his left leg, but the brain injuries were too severe for surgical intervention.
Impact and Road Safety Concerns
Shalkido’s passing has sparked widespread mourning across Kenya and reignited conversations about road safety. According to recent statistics, Kenya recorded 2,933 road traffic fatalities as of August 2025, highlighting ongoing risks for commuters.
Remembering Shalkido
The Gengetone artist was known for his contributions to the Kenyan music scene, and his untimely death is a tragic reminder of life’s fragility. Fans, fellow artists, and industry stakeholders continue to pay tribute to his talent and legacy.
Shalkido passed away on October 7, 2025, leaving a void in Kenya’s music industry and prompting renewed calls for improved road safety measures nationwide.
