Black Coffee, the CEO of Black Coffee Entertainment

By Emma Black

The entertainment industry and the wider Sierra Leonean community are grieving the loss of Akmed Sidi, widely known as Black Coffee, the CEO of Black Coffee Entertainment. Sidi passed away after a prolonged struggle with severe complications from Mpox (Monkeypox).

A respected and beloved figure in Sierra Leone’s entertainment scene, Sidi was admired not only for his work in music and entertainment but also for his unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable youth especially those battling drug addiction. Through his platform, he offered financial help, shared inspiring messages, and connected many with essential support networks, becoming a beacon of hope and compassion across the nation.

The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes on social media, comedian and reality TV star Mammy Thomas, himself a survivor of Mpox, expressed profound sorrow while raising awareness about the growing threat of the virus, rest in peace, Black Coffee, he wrote, he fought the good fight, but this virus doesn’t play fair.

In an emotional post, Mammy Thomas recounted his own painful experience with the disease and urged stronger public health measures, I thank God, I overcame it. But today, we’ve lost another strong soul. His death should push us beyond the limit, we’re still not doing enough, he called on health authorities to ramp up contact tracing and develop real-time rapid response systems to save more lives.

Yes, social and behavioral change communication is happening,” he said, “but we need more than just posters and jingles, we need trusted messengers, community mobilization, and intentional efforts that match the scale of this crisis, Mammy Thomas also warned of the potential for misinformation and fear to spread in the wake of Sidi’s death.

When a popular person dies, people start cooking up stories, we must fight that fear with facts, empathy, and care, the loss of Akmed Sidi is a tragic reminder of the very real dangers Mpox poses in Sierra Leone. Public health experts emphasize that this moment must inspire urgent national action to prevent further deaths.

Today, we mourn a vibrant soul a brother taken too soon by the devastating grip of Mpox. His passing leaves a deep wound, not only in the hearts of his family and loved ones but in all who were touched by his kindness and spirit.

Black Coffee was more than a name. He was a movement. A symbol of hope in dark times. A giver even when he had little. His generosity transcended ethnic, political, regional, and religious divides. He saw no tribe only humanity. Whether young or old, rich or poor, urban or rural, his hands were always extended with compassion.

He didn’t wait for change he embodied it. He didn’t just talk about love he lived it. Through his quiet, bold, and selfless acts, he transformed countless lives.

In a generation grappling with integrity and kindness, Mr. Black Coffee stood tall as a shining example of living for others with humility and purpose, tis footprints are not just in the sand but etched in the hearts of many, though death has claimed him, it cannot erase his impact. His life was a powerful message and we were the fortunate listeners. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift communities for years to come.

Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Wednesday, May 28TH, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)