10/12/2024
Report on the Meeting to Finalize Arrangements for the Funeral Rites of the Late Steady Bongo
On Monday, 9th December 2024, a meeting was convened at my office, the Office of the Ambassador of Entertainment, located at 58 Bathurst Street, Freetown, to discuss and finalise arrangements necessary to support the family of the late legendary Steady Bongo in providing him with a befitting burial.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders from the entertainment industry, including prominent entertainers such as -B Base aphonyx Prezo Colabo, DJ Kallox, and Mammy Hancils of the Legal Aid Board, alongside members of Steady Bongoโs family and other notable personalities.
The unity displayed by entertainers and stakeholders at this crucial time was commendable. It demonstrates the collective recognition by the entertainment community and the broader Sierra Leonean society that the late Steady Bongo was indeed a trailblazer in Sierra Leoneโs music industry. His remarkable contributions to the growth and promotion of Sierra Leonean music warrant the celebration and preservation of his legacy.
The meeting aimed at honouring Steady Bongoโs legacy by organizing significant events and activities to ensure a memorable and fitting and memorable farewell. Key discussions and resolutions include the following:
โOrganizing a Vigil and Candlelight Night: It was agreed that a vigil and candlelight night will be held in honour of Steady Bongo on the 17th and 18th of December 2024 at Jigibonta, a venue regarded by attendees as both symbolic and accessible to the entertainment community, fans, sympathizers and well-wishers.
โFormation of Fundraising Committees: To ensure enough resources for the funeral arrangements, fundraising committees were established. As discussed, these committees will coordinate efforts to organize a fundraising event, seeking support from individuals, organizations, and partners within and beyond the entertainment industry, and transparent mechanisms will be implemented to account for all funds raised and their subsequent utilization.
โFuneral Arrangements: It was resolved that members would assist the family in planning and executing all funeral rites. Efforts will be made to ensure that every aspect of the arrangements reflects the high standards befitting Steady Bongoโs legacy. In that regard, a collaborative approach will be adopted, incorporating input from both the family and the entertainment industry.
โMedia and Public Engagement: The critical role of the media in informing the public and mobilizing support was emphasized. A media team was tasked with ensuring extensive coverage of all planned events, highlighting Steady Bongoโs contributions to Sierra Leoneโs music industry and encouraging widespread participation.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to honour Steady Bongoโs contributions to Sierra Leoneโs entertainment industry. All attendees, including entertainers, stakeholders, and family members, expressed their determination to work collaboratively in celebrating the life and legacy of this remarkable individual.
As the Ambassador of Entertainment, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated in this meeting for their support and dedication. Steady Bongoโs life was a testament to the transformative power of music in shaping cultural identity and unifying communities. This collective effort reflects our profound respect for his immeasurable contributions.
I pray that we remain united in progressive endeavours, recognizing that solidarity is key to achieving shared goals. May the soul of our departed legend Rest in Peace.
Further updates on progress and related activities will be communicated in due course.
Ambassador Kao Lastking Denero
Ambassador of Entertainment
