Gospel artist and worship leader Pastor Kayiranga Innocent is grieving the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of his father, who passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
The sad news shocked many after it was confirmed that Karega Cosima, the father of Pastor Kayiranga, died suddenly at his home in Nyagatare District, Eastern Province of Rwanda. According to Pastor Kayiranga, the passing of his father came as a complete surprise.
“He was not sick at all,” Kayiranga told Paradise. “He went to bed feeling fine, covered himself with a blanket, and simply never woke up.” The late Karega Cosima is survived by five children—four sons and one daughter.
Pastor Kayiranga Innocent serves as a senior pastor at Ebenezer Open Bible Church and is widely recognized as one of the leading gospel musicians in the Eastern Province. He is married to Pastor Nkwihoreze Grace, and together they have five children. Their youngest, a son named Ntwari Gad Israel, was born on September 25, 2020.
Kayiranga rose to fame with his 2012 gospel hit “Ngarutse Imbere Yawe,” a song that became a major breakthrough in his ministry and musical career. The song has opened doors for him across Rwanda and in neighboring countries such as Uganda, Tanzania, and Burundi—especially for wedding celebrations and Christian events.
As he navigates this difficult time, Pastor Kayiranga remains surrounded by the prayers and support of his family, friends, and gospel music community.