Akothee’s longtime music producer and celebrated video director Hamza Aweso Omar, popularly known in the entertainment industry as Welo Kagomaz, is dead.
The talented filmmaker and music producer reportedly passed away on the night of Friday, June 20, leaving the Kenyan entertainment industry in shock and mourning.
At the time of publication, the cause of his death had not been officially disclosed.
According to reports, news of Hamza’s passing was first made public by entertainer Kurutu The Iron Man, who shared an emotional tribute on Facebook that quickly spread across social media.
Kurutu wrote:
“Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un 💔
To Allah we belong and to Allah we shall return.. 😭😭
Today my Beloved Brother Hamza Aweso Filmmaker
One Montage Films has passed away.. 😭
I have so much to say that I don’t know where to start .. ila Inshallah in due time.. Rest Easy till we meet again My friend, My Brother.. Confidant & My Partner In Crime.. May Allah swt Grant you The Highest Level Of Jannah and give your family patience and strength during this hard time 🤲 🕊️.”
The heartbreaking announcement triggered an outpouring of grief from celebrities, filmmakers, musicians and fans who had worked closely with Hamza over the years.
Among those deeply affected was renowned Kenyan singer and entrepreneur Akothee, whose career was closely intertwined with Hamza’s creative work.
The singer took to social media to express her pain following the devastating news.
In an emotional post, Akothee wrote:
“The man behind my music career 💔
Welo umeniumiza sanaaaaaaa
Sanaaaaaaa
Sanaaaaaa.
Tu sanaaaaaa.
Rest that was a journey enough to end.
Hamza Aweso Filmmaker
WELO WELO WELO
it is well
My love 🙏”
Her tribute highlighted the significant role Hamza played in shaping her music journey.
Over the years, Welo directed and produced numerous music videos, helping several Kenyan artists build their brands through high-quality visual productions.
Beyond Akothee, fellow video directors and producers also shared heartfelt messages in honor of the late filmmaker.
Renowned producer Totti joined the growing list of mourners, writing:
“Shine On Your Way Brother Hamza Aweso Omar (Video Director Welo Kagomaz)🙏🏾🕊️🕊️,”
Hamza was widely respected in Kenya’s entertainment circles for his creativity, professionalism and dedication to storytelling through film and music videos.
Through his production company, One Montage Films, he worked with numerous artists across East Africa, helping bring their artistic visions to life.
His work earned him admiration among musicians, content creators and fellow filmmakers, many of whom described him as humble, talented and passionate about his craft.
Industry players have noted that his contributions helped raise the standards of music video production in Kenya at a time when the industry was rapidly evolving.
Friends and colleagues remember him not only as a gifted creative but also as a mentor who was always willing to guide upcoming talent.
Several artists have credited him with giving them opportunities and believing in their potential long before they became household names.
Away from the cameras and production sets, Hamza was a devoted family man.
He leaves behind two beautiful daughters, a loss that has made the tragedy even more painful for those close to him.
As tributes continue to pour in from across Kenya and beyond, many have called for prayers and support for his family during this difficult period.
The circumstances surrounding Hamza’s death remain unclear.
Nairobi News has indicated that it cannot authoritatively report what caused his death and is closely following developments to establish the exact circumstances surrounding his passing.
For now, the Kenyan entertainment industry mourns the loss of a visionary filmmaker whose work helped define an era of music video production and whose legacy will live on through the countless projects he brought to life.
May Hamza Aweso Omar, aka Welo Kagomaz, rest in peace. 🕊️
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