Digital content creator, musician, and aspiring politician Kevin ‘Bahati’ Kioko has paid a poignant tribute to his late stepmother, who was laid to rest yesterday. Bahati, who is known for his emotional expressions, shared a deeply personal moment with his followers on social media, reflecting on the profound loss he experienced.
In an Instagram video, Bahati captured powerful moments from the funeral service, which was attended by him and his wife, Diana Marua. The video provided an intimate glimpse into the proceedings, starting from their arrival at the burial site to the lowering of the casket into the ground. The footage showed a devastated Bahati standing by the casket, delivering his emotional eulogy as mourners threw dirt onto it, marking the final farewell.
As Bahati shared these heart-wrenching moments, he expressed his disbelief and sorrow. He captioned the video, writing, “It’s been a sad day. It is still unbelievable that you are gone,” alongside several broken heart emojis, emphasizing the weight of the loss he felt.
Reflecting on the significance of the loss, Bahati continued, “It was a painful goodbye to the woman that my dad loved last. Our mum has gone to be with the Lord. #RIP Mama Benja.” In an emotional moment, Bahati also sent a personal message to his late mother, saying, “Salimia Baba Bahati, tutaonana baadaye” (say hello to Bahati’s dad, we will see each other later). These words, spoken through tears, added a sense of closure, as Bahati acknowledged the eternity that now separates him from his beloved stepmother.
During his eulogy, Bahati recalled the last conversation he had with his stepmother, just weeks before her death. With a heavy heart, he shared how he had promised her that he would help her son, Benja, find a job in Nairobi. “I talked to her three weeks ago, promising her I would take Benja to Nairobi and give him a job,” Bahati explained while standing beside Mama Benja’s wooden coffin. His voice cracked as he remembered the last exchange with the woman who had been a mother figure to him.
The grief was palpable, but Bahati’s partner, Diana Marua, was by his side throughout the emotional day. Diana comforted him as he struggled with his emotions, offering her support and words of solace. In a touching post on her own social media, Diana revealed that she and Bahati would be stepping in to care for Benja, Bahati’s stepbrother, now that he was an orphan. Diana reassured Mama Benja, saying, “She fought her race, and she finished strong! Benja is now our responsibility, rest now knowing that he is in good hands.”
Her words offered a sense of peace, assuring the late Mama Benja that her son would be well cared for in the family’s hands. Diana concluded her tribute by saying, “Rest in God’s paradise Mama Benja.”
The couple’s fans flocked to the comment section to offer their support and express condolences. Many praised Bahati and Diana for their strength during such a difficult time and sent prayers for Mama Benja’s soul. The tributes filled with love and encouragement reflected the deep bond the couple shares with their fans, who have always been a part of their journey.
As Bahati and Diana continue to process this painful loss, it is evident that Mama Benja’s memory will live on in their hearts. The promise Bahati made to her that her son would be cared for has already been honored, and the legacy of love and care continues through their actions. In the midst of grief, Bahati and Diana’s resolve to carry on Mama Benja’s wishes offers a glimmer of hope in a time of sorrow.
Rest in peace, Mama Benja. You will forever be remembered.