Hundreds of mourners gathered at Jesus Center Church in Windhoek to pay their last respects to the late music producer Araffath Muhuure, who died last Friday at the age of 40.

During the memorial service, speaker after speaker hailed the late producer as a pioneer who helped shape the music industry in Namibia into its own form and identity.

Several local musicians performed songs produced by Muhuura in dedication to his memory and expressed gratitude for his guidance and support throughout their careers.

Muhuura's family and close friends delivered emotional speeches, remembering him as a good son, brother, father, talented musician, and generous person.

Muhuura's music career dates back to the early 2000s, when he co-founded the Eagles Mentality Group while producing music at the Jesus Center Church, before he established his own recording company, Triple7 Studios.

He rose to fame and scooped a number of best producer awards, producing many award-winning songs for popular Namibian musicians.

Muhuura also produced many songs for Swapo election campaigns, projects against gender-based violence, national unity, and Project Never Walk Alone.

The art industry used the opportunity to plead with the government to prioritize the entertainment industry as a potential contributor to employment creation and, subsequently, sustainable economic development in the country.

Muhuura joined NASCAM in February 2005 and had registered close to 200 songs.

The memorial service ended with a slideshow of photos from Muhuura's life, accompanied by a heartfelt rendition of songs by the Jesus Center choir.

Muhuura is survived by his son, parents, and three siblings. He will be buried on Saturday in Omaruru.