Ivory Coast gov't reacts to Papa Wemba's death

His last stage performance was at the Urban Musical Festival Anoumabo (FEMUA) in Ivory Coast’s city Abidjan.

Soon after performing three songs, the 66- year-old star, Papa Wemba collapsed on stage and was later declared dead.

The Ivorian government has sent its condolences to the Democratic Republic of Congo, saying Wemba’s passing was a great loss.

The Ivorian presidency tweeted the President, Alassane Ouattara’s condolences to the Congolese people, to Wemba’s family and fans.

“J'adresse au nom de tout le peuple de CI ainsi qu'en mon nom propre, mes condoléances à sa famille,au Congo,au FEMUA,à tous ses fans.” A.O.

— Presidenceci (@Presidenceci) April 24, 2016

‘‘I have the honor and sorrow to salute the memory of Papa Wemba, he came to lend his support to FEMUA,” said Maurice Bandaman, Ivorian Minister of Culture

The Ivorian government has promised to assist the family of the deceased musician with funeral arrangements.

The FEMUA management also expressed its “deep sorrow” at the passing of the “King of Congolese rumba”.

Correspondent, AFP