Taarab maestro Makame Faki dies aged 77

Faki was buried on 19 January according to the Muslim tradition.

His death was first announced by musician Rajab Suleiman, who shared the news on Facebook. "It is with sadness that we report the death of our singer Mzee [Elder] Makame Faki. Makame died in Zanzibar this morning after a short illness. Rest in peace, Mzee Makame," he wrote.

Condolences have been pouring in from around the world, including from Said el-Gheithy, the chairperson of Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation, a fund that supports culture and education in Zanzibar.

"The board members of the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation join the family and friends in prayers for the passing of the Maestro, Mzee Makame Faki," el-Gheithy wrote on Facebook. His unique voice, grand performance and his great contribution to the musical tradition of Zanzibar will continue to be an inspiration."

Musician Maembe Vitali wrote: "Mzee Makame Faki! Rest in peace. As a musician, your presence here on earth has not passed in vain, we have heard you, we have seen you, we have been refreshed, and we have learned! Rest in peace!"

Faki's unique voice and poetic nature of his songs, such as 'Mazowea Yana Tabu', earned him the nickname 'Sauti ya Zege' (the gravelly voice). Apart from his powerful vocals, Faki played the violin, oud, flute, maracas and accordion. He was also known for his Zanzibari kidumbak drumming technique.

Faki played in East Africa, Europe and the Caribbean with Zanzibar's oldest touring taarab orchestra, Culture Music Club, and the Sinachuki Kidumbak group. He was also a cultural ambassador who mentored students at the Dhow Countries Music Academy.