Cathy Matete earns Basadi Nomination

The controversial death of an outspoken educator in Kenyan police custody last year, so angered Cathy Matete, she wrote a song decrying what became an international incident.

‘We Won’t be Silenced’ is the name of that song, produced by Garfield Cowan for Natures Way Entertainment. It was inspired by the death of Albert Ojwang at a jail in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, in June, 2025.

The song has earned Matete a nomination for Reggae Artiste of The Year at the fifth Basadi In Music Awards, scheduled for August 7-8 at Joburg Theater in South Africa.

“It was very important because ‘We Won’t Be Silenced’ was never just a song, every line was intentional. I wrote this song because silence has protected injustice for far too long,” she said. “Whether it’s police brutality, corruption or leaders who betray the people they were elected to serve, our generation refuses to look away. ‘We Won’t Be Silenced’ is a declaration that our voices matter, our lives matter, and we will continue to speak truth, demand accountability, and stand together until real change comes.”

Ojwang, a 31 year-old teacher, was a vocal critic of social injustice in Kenya. He was arrested for criticising a senior police official, and was found dead in custody one day later.

His death triggered global outcry and placed the Kenyan justice system under the microscope. Six members of the Central Police Station, where the incident took place, were charged with murder.

Their trial started July 20 in Nairobi.

‘We Won’t be Silenced’ is part of Natures Way Entertainment’s ‘Roots Rock Reggae’ compilation album which was released in January. It also has songs by Anthony B, Fantan Mojah, Ginjah and Zamunda.

The other Basadi In Music Awards Reggae Artiste of The Year nominees and their songs are: Shekhinah of South Africa (‘What Are We’); Undefynd Musiq of Zimbabwe (‘Beacon’); Dimahr of South Africa (‘Ancient Waters’); and Empress Deevyne of South Africa (‘You’re Worthy’).

The South Florida-based Cowan met Nairobi-born Matete through Benson “Sir Benny” Mghanga Tayo, a mutual friend. He has since recorded five songs with her for his company.

“Cathy Matete is an incredible artiste, and to see ‘We Won’t Be Silenced’ receive this kind of recognition on the African continent is a proud moment for all of us,” said Cowan. “It shows that Natures Way Entertainment is not just making music — we are creating meaningful reggae music that can cross borders, connect cultures and make an impact.”

(Photo contributed)