Ezekiel Mutua sets record straight on legendary gospel singer Mary Atieno of "Adamu na Awa" fame

The Music Copyright Society of Kenya CEO Dr. Ezekiel Mutua has clarified on the true status of legendary gospel singer Mary Atieno Ominde of “Adamu na Awa” fame.

This comes after an undated photo of the gospel artist, dressed in modest outfits, went viral on social media, with a section of Kenyans speculating that she was struggling in life.

However, Dr. Mutua says that the viral photo, taken during a kesha (overnight prayer meeting) at a church, was a deliberate misrepresentation of facts sorrounding the gospel singer.

According to Dr. Mutua, the viral photo does not depict Mama Mary’s current state or circumstances, despite the “misleading and distressing” narrative being spread online.

“Attendees at such spiritual gatherings like overnight prayers, do not typically appear in makeup or formal attire—a crucial context omitted to perpetuate misinformation,” Dr. Mutua wrote on his Facebook page.

He acknowledges that Mama Mary Atieno deserves the unwavering support of the government, well-wishers, fans, and all Kenyans of goodwill for her invaluable contributions to the gospel music industry in the country.

Mama Mary Atieno, Dr. Mutua insists, remains an enduring inspiration to women, and embodies the fact that disability is not inability.

House gift

Recently, Mama Mary Atieno received a generous donation from her friends and fans, led by Mr. Larry Liza. The friends and fans handed her keys to a new house in Buruburu, Nairobi County, donated through the Larry Liza Foundation.

Dr. Mutua, who was part of the team, says that Mr. Liza personally secured a bank loan of nearly KSh10 million to supplement contributions from well-wishers mobilized via his foundation, and the keys were presented publicly to Mama Mary Atieno on February 7, 2026 during a special event at PCEA St. Andrews Church in Nairobi.

The ceremony was graced by top gospel artists — including Dr. Sarah K, Kambua, and Kestin Mbogo — as well as Bomet Nominated Senator Hon Joyce Korir Bomet, who also pledged to mobilise more support from the Government towards the cause.

“The house requires furniture and other essentials to provide Mama Mary with the comfort befitting her disability and advanced age and therefore donations from well wishers are welcome,” Dr. Mutua said. “Indeed, it’s gratifying to witness great Kenyans—such as Mr. Larry Liza, Dr. Sarah K, Hon. Joyce Korir, among others — uniting to uplift this legend. I am humbled to have been part of these efforts.”

While Mama Mary Atieno merits the ongoing support from her admirers, Dr. Mutua insists that the viral photo and online misrepresentation undermine her dignity and legacy.

“I urge the public to verify facts before sharing content and to celebrate this legend’s contributions with the respect she deserves. I hope this statement sets the record straight and that it will bring an immediate end to such distortions.”