World leaders and celebrities united in grief after the passing of legendary South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela

President Uhuru Kenyatta is in mourning following the death of a close friend.

Mr. Kenyatta had a hard time believing that his South African friend and legendary South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela was no more.

"I had the privilege of counting him as a friend. I often met him, here in Nairobi, or in South Africa. He was as energetic, as full of life, and as optimistic as ever, so it is a terrible surprise to hear that he has left us." He tweeted.

Hugh Masekela died on Tuesday after a long battle with prostate cancer.

His family announced his demise to the world through a statement.

"...The family of Ramapolo Hugh Masekela announce his passing. After a protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer, he passed peacefully in Johannesburg, South Africa, surrounded by his family."

His son Sal Masekela who is also an artist took to twitter to break the sad news.

President Kenyatta who is a fan of the musician, eulogized him by saying he was not only a South African but a citizen of the world who will forever be remembered for his inspiring music and freedom struggle.

"His songs, it is fair to say, were the sound of freedom, not just for South Africa, but for Africa too."

He never forgot his obligations to Africa either: he mentored African musicians, and remained as creative in his blending of Jazz and African sounds in his old age as he had been in his youth."

Other world leaders and celebrities were equally shocked by his death and wrote moving euologies.