photo by RasFreeman
Antigua and Barbuda is mourning the loss of beloved Rastafarian elder and cultural icon King Saggi-Fu, also known as Osagifu, who passed away earlier today.
Speaking to Antigua.News via telephone from Dominica, Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed deep sadness at the passing of his longtime friend and fellow Gray’s Farm native.
“I extend condolences to the family members of King Saggi-Fu, especially his brothers,” Browne said. “I grew up in the village of Gray’s Farm among him and his brothers, and I was very familiar with him as a child. We enjoyed a close relationship, and I always regarded him as one of the senior figures in the Rastafarian community.”
The Prime Minister recalled personally visiting King Saggi-Fu at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre a few weeks ago, shortly after he was flown to Antigua via air ambulance.
“We were hopeful for his survival,” Browne reflected. “During my visit, I played some of my latest 14 songs for him — including Gassy Dread and Love Is the Way — and he was delighted. He seemed at peace and fully embraced the fact that his life was coming to an end.”
Browne described King Saggi-Fu as a man of deep conviction, spiritual strength, and cultural influence whose leadership within the Rastafarian movement left an indelible mark on the nation.
“We worked closely with him and had hoped for his speedy recovery. His passing is truly saddening, but we must be comforted that he lived a full and impactful life,” Browne said.
“We stand in solidarity with his family and the Rastafarian community, and the government remains willing to provide assistance during this difficult time.”
The Prime Minister added that King Saggi-Fu’s memory will continue to live on through his family, his music, and the Rastafarian community he led with grace and dignity.
“May time ease the pain of his loved ones,” Browne said, “and may his legacy continue to inspire unity, culture, and peace.”
Meanwhile, Education Minister Daryll Matthew said on his Facebook page, “struggle to find the right words to describe the lifelong friendship we’ve shared, and the sadness I’m feeling. I remember playing with your children when I was a little boy. I remember you walking me around your “farm”. I remember eating and drinking with you. You were driven, motivated, fearless and loyal.
I’ve always enjoyed our conversations. You always had something insightful and sometimes controversial to discuss. I will miss you, Sir. King Saggi-Fu. Osagifu. Brother Mack. Rest well. It is well deserved. JAHHHHH RASTAFARI!!!!!!”.
His given name was Foster Mack.I knew him at Greenbay School.I knew his siblings and parents.Rest in Peace,FOSTER MACK,KING SAGGI-FU.
Rest in eternal peace in Zion King!!!
Condolences to those who mourn
Sad to hear of his passing. The Rastafarian community has lost a true elder and guide.
RIP RAS. You served your community well
He represented Rastafari with dignity. No show, no pretense just truth and spirit.
Rastafari has lost a general, but his spirit lives in every chant, every drumbeat, every positive vibration.
Love and strength to his family. May Jah comfort them through this time of loss.
Jah guide the soul of a warrior. His words, his works, his wisdom none will be forgotten.
RIP. You died in peace my friend
Every youth from Gray’s Farm to the hills of Liberta knew the name King Saggi-Fu. His legacy is bigger than music it’s about identity.
Respect to PM Browne for showing love and giving Saggi-Fu his flowers while he was still alive. True respect between brethren. 🙏🏾
Rip soldier