Gakondo musician Massamba Intore is mourning the loss of his mother, Ancille Mukarugagi, who passed away on September 18 at Kanombe Military Hospital after being hospitalized for several days. She was 83. Massamba shared the sad news on his social media platforms, where he also announced funeral arrangements. “She is the one who supported Gitare (God) in raising me. May God receive her, and may you be reunited with my father Sentore in eternal peace,” the Kanjogera singer wrote in a social media post. Although his mother had been ill, Massamba said her death was unexpected because the family had begun to hope for her recovery. “She had been in the hospital for days, but we still had hope she would recover. However, it was God’s will to call her,” he lamented. ALSO READ: Massamba Intore’s 40-year journey: A musical fairytale The artist described his mother as a guiding force who left him with the responsibility of promoting Rwandan culture and teaching the younger generation to love their country. He vowed to honour her legacy and continue her mission. Her death comes 13 years after the death of Massamba’s father, Athanase Sentore. In media interviews, including one done in June 2024, Massamba would praise his mother as the pillar of his musical career. He said she encouraged him from childhood, supported his dreams, and stood by him through his artistic journey.
