After years of hardship and declining health, renowned benga musician Paul Ochieng Orwa, popularly known as Orwa Ja Solo or ‘Jathum Ngut Sade Ler,’ has found a new lifeline in the form of a sponsor promising specialized medical support. Nyakach parliamentary aspirant Nashon Angudha Kuja visited Orwa’s home in Lumbwa Village, Burkamwana-Ragen Jimo in Nyakach Sub-County on Saturday, October 26, to pledge his assistance.
Angudha, who has long admired Orwa’s contribution to Kenyan music, assured the former star of comprehensive support beginning with urgent medical care.
I have met Jasolo before, and we’re making arrangements to ensure he gets to the hospital for the care he needs. Health is more important than anything else; we’ll take care of the rest later,” Angudha stated during his visit.
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Orwa Ja Solo welcomed Angudha and his team warmly.
I am very grateful. I dreamt yesterday about visitors, and today you are here. I believe God has sent you. I’ve been unwell for a long time, and it brings me joy to see people come to support me,” Orwa said, expressing hope for recovery after years of battling illness.
Once a towering figure in the benga scene alongside legends like George Ramogi and D.O. Misiani, Orwa Ja Solo earned acclaim for his masterful fusion of traditional Luo rhythms with modern instrumentation, cementing his place in the hearts of fans. But in 2016, he was diagnosed with high blood pressure, leading to paralysis on his right side and triggering a series of physical and financial challenges that have left him unable to perform or live independently.
With Angudha’s commitment, the ailing musician now has renewed hope for treatment, rehabilitation, and a potential return to better health. This assistance not only honors his enduring legacy but serves as a reminder of the power of community support for Kenya’s cultural icons.
