Mbale, (UG):- The Bamasaba Cultural Institution has confirmed with deep sorrow the passing of Mrs Catherine Hanyiga, the celebrated voice behind the iconic Bamasaba anthem.
The spokesperson of the institution, Mr. Steven Masiga, shared the sad news in a Sunday statement sent to the Bamasaba people in Masabaland, Uganda, Kenya, and the diaspora.
“It is with deep sorrow that we inform all Bamasaba people about the untimely demise of Mrs. Catherine Hanyiga, the heroine behind the beautiful melodies of the Bamasaba anthem,” said Mr. Masiga.
Mrs. Hanyiga had been battling illness for some time. Despite her condition, she made an effort to appear for interviews earlier this year to discuss the Bamasaba anthem, a piece that resonates deeply with the community’s cultural identity.
“The first and last interviews we had with her early this year were about the anthem of the Bamasaba people. They were relayed on media platforms such as NTV, Daily Monitor, Radio Uganda, Daily Express, and the Ankole Times,” Mr. Masiga shared. He added, “During the interview, Mayi Catherine said she was not feeling well but still gathered some energy to appear for the interviews.”
The late, who was also a trained teacher and a graduate of Makerere University in the 1970s, leaves behind an enduring legacy as a pillar of the Bamasaba cultural and musical heritage.
Recognizing her immense contribution, the Umukuka III and cultural leader of the Bamasaba, HRH Jude Mike Mudoma, has instructed the Prime Minister of Inzu Ya Masaba to convene an urgent meeting. The meeting will coordinate with Mrs. Hanyiga’s family to organize a befitting send-off for the cultural icon.
“This is a great loss to the family, Masabaland, and the entire music fraternity,” Mr. Masiga lamented.
The Bamasaba community remembers Mrs. Hanyiga not only for her melodies but also for her dedication to cultural preservation. Her songs will continue to echo in the hearts of many, a reminder of her invaluable contribution to the identity of the Bamasaba people.
Mrs Hanyiga is survived by her family and a rich legacy that will inspire generations to come.
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