LGBTQ+ activist Jaffar Jackson dies after short illness

The LGBTQ+ and entertainment industries were rocked by the tragic news that Jackson Irungu, also known as Jaffar Jackson, had died. On Sunday, January 7, the Kenyan stylist and former M-Net Idol passed away due to complications from a stomach ailment.

Jaffar’s family revealed that their loved one had lately been admitted to the hospital and that, in spite of efforts to gather money for his care, he was unable to overcome his health issues.
Actress Lydia Gitachu revealed the devastating update on social media, revealing the unexpected news.

“Jackson was suffering from a stomach infection. We found out he was hospitalised yesterday. I spoke to him and his uncle who raised money for the medication prescribed. Kuamkia this morning (January 7), Lydia Gitachu had posted about his demise after being contacted by a neighbour,” -Jaffar’s celebrity friends on WhatsApp were updated by actress Nice Githinji in a fundraising group.

According to Jaffar’s family, the funeral will happen on January 18 at Langata Cemetery. Friends, family, and fans will assemble to say their final goodbyes to the endearing performer.

On December 18, Jaffar—who was well-known for his vivacious personality and upbeat manner—shared a poignant message that touched on life’s challenges. He described the difficulties that many people go through in the post.

“Sometimes life hits us so hard and from every direction. Just getting super tired of this thing called life! Guess a time comes when we all say goodbye world?”

Jaffar is remembered by his loved ones as a cheerful and brave man.
Close friend Melanie Woods expressed shock and sadness over the unexpected passing, highlighting Jaffar’s plans to start a new career and her agony upon learning of the news following their previous talk.

“I was woken up yesterday with the news that you were gone. I didn’t want to believe it. We just spoke just before the New Year. You were starting a new job on the tenth. I went to our messages to see if you had sent me a message that I had missed or if indeed it was just a dream. I was angry, so angry I gave myself a headache. I still can’t talk about just how angry I am. You shouldn’t be gone but you are. Know you were loved Jaffar Jackson. My heart is broken,”

While some expressed their sympathies, Achola Rosario described Jaffar’s life as lovely but cruelly cut short, and others highlighted his bravery.

Jaffar’s family member Elva commended him for his courage in coming out as gay and even went so far as to proclaim it live on CNN.

When Jaffar Jackson came out a few years ago, he received a lot of negative press, but he persisted in being a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights in Kenya. He talked candidly about his difficulties.