Uganda and the wider East African entertainment community are in mourning following the death of DJ Bush Baby, a well-known disc jockey and media personality whose real name was Michael Benjamin Owor. He passed away at the age of 50, leaving behind a significant legacy.

DJ Bush Baby was found deceased on the morning of Thursday, June 5, 2024, inside his private recording studio in Entebbe, Uganda. Concerns arose when friends and family had not heard from him since Tuesday, June 3. This prompted a search, culminating in them forcibly entering his studio where they discovered his lifeless body. At the time of reporting, the cause of his death had not been publicly revealed.

Michael Benjamin Owor was a celebrated figure in the media landscape, having worked with top media houses in both Uganda and Tanzania. He was widely regarded as a pioneer in the East African entertainment industry. Many remembered his groundbreaking efforts in introducing audio-visual radio to Uganda as far back as 2004, broadcasting from Tanzania to Uganda. He was also credited with mentoring several other superstar disk jockeys throughout his career.

The news of his passing sent shockwaves across social media, with an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow creatives, and celebrities. Prominent Ugandan musician Jose Chameleone penned a heartfelt message, stating, "My heartfelt condolences to the family of Michael Benjamin Owor - DJ Bush Baby. My brother, thank you for sharing your knowledge with us and for your contribution to the music fraternity. May the light of the lord shine on you forever. Rest in peace, our beloved brother."

Echoing these sentiments, musician Mun G wrote on X, “Such a grounded soul. Always had a smile on you. May your soul rest peacefully DJ Bushbaby.” TV presenter Douglas Lwanga expressed his grief: “He posted three days ago and he’s gone, this thing called life. Rest in power DJ Bush Baby. The creative fraternity will miss your brain. RIP.” Journalist Canary Mugume shared, “Indeed this was DJ Bush Baby’s last dance. He’s been found lifeless today where he resides.” One fan highlighted his innovative spirit, posting, “Bush Baby was serving audio visual radio circa 2004, broadcasting to Uganda from Tanzania….this is still not the easiest thing to do today in 2025. 🙌🏾 What a man!!”

Ugandan lawyer and activist Agather Atuhaire also shared a touching remembrance, recalling a conversation in March where DJ Bush Baby had expressed a desire to use his voice and platform to contribute to efforts for a better country. He had shown interest in joining the @AgoraCFR initiative and, according to Atuhaire, was brimming with creative ideas. "The day we welcomed him to the team... we woke up to a lot of ideas he had shared... too bad he died before we executed any of them," she wrote, adding, "He was a great human."

DJ Bush Baby’s untimely death has left a deep void in Uganda’s entertainment scene. He is remembered not only as a pioneering force and a creative visionary but also as a kind soul who inspired many. His contributions to music and media in East Africa will be long remembered.