A wave of grief washes over Tanzania and East Africa following the passing of comedy icon Umar Iahbedi Issa, better known by his stage name Mzee Mjegeje.

Mzee Mjegeje’s legacy is one of laughter and unforgettable catchphrases, with the viral sensation “Kata simu tupo site” (Hang up, we’re here) being his most notable contribution.

The phrase gained popularity across East Africa just 2 years ago and became a staple of Kenyan street slang, political dialogue, and social media trends. His comic genius transcended age groups, as he found humor in the ordinary aspects of life.

A single video sparked this phenomenon. It featured Mzee Mjegeje passionately insisting that someone hang up their phone. His signature humor and emphatic delivery shone through in the now-famous line:

“Kata simu kata simu tupo site, we don’t like disturbance of the head you understand.

Mzee Mjegeje once spoke about his creative process, highlighting his desire to “create content that appeals to the audience.” This dedication, combined with his talent for connecting with people through laughter, secured him a special place in the hearts of many.

Mzee Mjegeje’s was not only a great comedian, but a dedicated business man, who owned a hotel in Tanzania before his growth in the comedy industry.

According to online reports, Mjegeje suffered a long illness and was admitted in hospital for several days before his demise. Family is yet to give a confirmation on what led to his death.