Iconic traditional music singer and songwriter Abdoul Makanyaga is suffering from prostate illness, The New Times has learnt. The story of singer Makanyaga falling sick emerged on December 23, when he was with other teammates of 'Vanginganzo' in a concert in Musanze District. He had another concert in Rubavu District the day after but wasn't able to make it as he was taken to Gisenyi Hospital and later on transferred to University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) where he is currently being hospitalized. Since then, a campaign to support him emerged on WhatsApp groups saying that he is critically ill and needs support. The New Times spoke to Jane Uwimana, the Chairperson and Managing Director of Vanginganzo CBC, a musicians' company of which Abdoul Makanyaga is a board member over his medical state. She said Makanyaga is ill as a result of standing up for long hours. He is still in the hospital but improving now, it’s a prostate illness. The 75-year-old is being taken care of by his wife and son, Uwimana said. More support needed Talking about the ongoing campaign for supporting the iconic singer who is amongst the legends who paved the path for Rwandan music, Uwimana said the support is aimed at supporting him while he relaxes frm tiresome concerts. “The illness is not the story; it is just the body that is tired. We need the cash to help him because he is over 75 and we need him to relax a bit and stop the stressful concerts,” she noted. She said anyone willing to support can reach out on 0788318997. Makanyaga was born and raised in Huye District, and has been in local music for over 50 years since he joined his career at the age of 20, 1967.
