Kenyan music group Sailors Gang has broken its silence after a long period away from the spotlight, paying an emotional tribute to former member Shalkido, who died in October 2025 following a motorcycle accident along Thika Road.
In a post shared on the group’s Instagram page on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, the remaining members reflected on the loss of their colleague, describing him as more than just a fellow musician but a brother and part of their family.
The group acknowledged that fans had been wondering about their whereabouts, explaining that several things had happened behind the scenes, including the loss of someone whose contribution to their journey could never be forgotten.
“A lot has happened behind the scenes. Life took us through seasons we never imagined, and along the way, we lost someone more than just a group member. We lost a brother, a friend, and a part of our family,” they wrote.
They added that although only four members remain, the group would always consider itself a five-member family because of the memories they shared with Shalkido.
“We may be four standing here today, but Sailors will always be five in our hearts. His memories, his laughter, his contribution and the moments we shared will forever be part of our story,” the statement read.
How Shalkido died
Shalkido, whose real name was Kevin Mburu Kinyanjui, died after a motorcycle accident along Thika Road on Sunday, October 5, 2025.
According to reports at the time, the musician was involved in the crash between Githurai and Roysambu while riding home after a performance.
He was rushed to Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), where he was admitted in critical condition with severe head injuries, internal bleeding, and a fractured leg.
Media personality Oga Obinna, who had interacted with the musician shortly before the accident, shared updates about his condition as he received treatment.
Shalkido was later declared brain-dead and died on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the age of 28. His death was confirmed by his family and former Sailors Gang bandmate Peter Mwangi, popularly known as Miracle Baby.
Sailors Gang says its story is not over
Before his death, Shalkido had been working towards rebuilding his music career after struggling to find his footing following the group’s split. His death came at a time when he had begun receiving support from fellow entertainers and fans, with plans to return to performing and release more music.
In their latest message, Sailors Gang also thanked fans who continued supporting their music despite the group’s long silence. “To everyone who stood with us, supported us, danced to our music and never stopped believing in us, thank you for keeping the Sailors spirit alive,” they said.
The group was, however, keen to assure supporters that its journey was not over, declaring that the four surviving members were still carrying the Sailors identity forward. “We’ve been quiet, but our story isn’t over. Four of us are still here. One of us lives forever in our memories,” they added.
Sailors Gang rose to prominence during the Gengetone wave with popular songs including Wamlambez, Wainame and Pekejeng. Shalkido was among the members who helped establish the group’s place in Kenya’s urban music scene.
