Joshua Baraka Mourns the Loss of His Father and Musical Mentor, Lawrence Okello

KAMPALA, Uganda – Ugandan singer and producer Joshua Baraka is in mourning following the sudden death of his father, Pastor Lawrence Okello, who passed away on June 7, 2026, at the age of 57.

The 25-year-old artist, known for his soulful voice and hit song “Nana,” has lost not only a parent but the man who first introduced him to the world of music. Pastor Okello, a respected religious leader born in 1969, played a pivotal role in shaping his son’s artistic foundation.

A Father’s Musical Legacy

During Joshua’s formative years in Kampala’s Bwaise and Kawempe neighborhoods, Lawrence Okello surrounded his son with church pianists, drummers, and various instruments. This early exposure to gospel sounds and church music profoundly shaped Baraka’s artistry, helping him blend spirituality with his distinctive contemporary style.

The close bond between father and son has become a central theme in the public tributes flooding social media, with many sharing clips of their joyful moments together in recent times.

News Breaks and Public Reaction

The news was first reported late Sunday by Galaxy FM, with other Ugandan outlets such as MBU Uganda and Patro Uganda quickly sharing condolences, photos, and prayers. On X (formerly Twitter), fans, fellow artists, and the public have flooded the platform with heartfelt messages, offering prayers for strength and comfort for Baraka and his family during this difficult period.

Funeral Arrangements

According to announcements circulating on social media and confirmed in reports:

· Church Service: Monday, June 8, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Kamwokya Church of God
· Burial: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in Kayunga (specifically Bugelele, Kitimbwa area)

About Joshua Baraka

Born on December 13, 2000, in Kawempe, Kampala, to a Kenyan father and Ugandan mother, Joshua Baraka rose to prominence with hits like “Nana” in 2023. He is known for his production skills and ability to fuse contemporary sounds with emotional depth rooted in his upbringing. This loss comes at a time when Baraka has been enjoying significant success in his music career both locally and internationally.

Our deepest condolences go out to Joshua Baraka, his family, and all those affected by Pastor Lawrence Okello’s passing. May his soul rest in eternal peace.