NBC Director General Stanley Similo has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of veteran reggae musician Ras Sheehama, describing him as a friend, a brother, and a pioneer of Namibian music.

Similo recalled first meeting Sheehama shortly after his return from exile, while staying at Katutura Guest House, where they often played music together.

Later, during his tenure as Manager of Television Domestic Programmes at the NBC, Similo and his late colleagues, Rikeutjua Tjombonde and Willie Mbuende, worked to introduce local music shows that gave artists like Sheehama a platform.

Similo spoke of one particular memory of sending a production team, including Steve Leukes and Bolie Mootseng, to Swakopmund and Henties Bay to record one of Sheehama’s songs.

Their professional relationship extended over the years, including serving together as judges at the NTN’s Last Band Standing, where Similo was Head Judge.

“Ras was always generous with his knowledge, humble in spirit, and true to his music. Beyond the professional sphere, we shared a close friendship. His passing is not only a loss to Namibia’s music but also to those of us who called him brother,” Similo said.