KAMPALA, Uganda — Ugandan afrobeats singer Joshua Baraka is mourning the death of his father, Pastor Lawrence Okello Hababalu, who passed away at the age of 57.
The singer shared the heartbreaking news on Sunday through a brief but emotional message on social media, posting: “Rest easy my pastor,” accompanied by a dove emoji, a tribute that quickly drew condolences from fans, fellow musicians, and friends.
Pastor Okello, a respected spiritual leader born in 1969, is remembered for his significant influence on his son’s life and musical journey. Those close to the family say he played a key role in nurturing Joshua Baraka’s faith and early musical development, helping shape the gospel and inspirational influences that can still be heard in some of the artist’s work.
Baraka, 25, has become one of Uganda’s fastest-rising music stars, gaining international recognition through songs such as Nana and his acclaimed project Juvie.
Friends and fans have since flooded social media with messages of sympathy, sharing prayers and words of encouragement for the singer and his family during the difficult period.
Many also recalled the warm relationship between father and son, including past public moments in which Baraka affectionately described his father as “the baddest and nicest,” reflecting the close bond they shared.
Family members announced that a funeral service for Pastor Okello will be held on Sunday, June 8, at 3:00 p.m. at Kamwokya Church of God.
He will be laid to rest on Monday in Kayunga District, where relatives, friends, church members, and mourners are expected to gather to pay their final respects.
The loss comes at a time when Joshua Baraka’s music career continues to grow both locally and internationally, making the passing of his father an especially emotional moment for the young artist.
As messages of condolence continue to pour in from across Uganda’s entertainment industry, many have praised Pastor Okello’s role in raising and guiding a son who has become one of the country’s most celebrated young musicians.