The legendary singer died of cancer, according to AFP.

His family said in a statement that he has been battling cancer for a long time.

Oryema died in Lorient, France, where he has been living after fleeing from the dictatorship of former Uganda President Idi Amin in 1977.

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He is the son of Erinayo Wilson Oryema who served in the cabinet minister in the government of Amin.

The Soroti born musician, author, singer and songwriter is known for his songs like "Lapwony", "Exile", "Ye Ye Ye", "Land of Anaka", "Makambo" among others which became some of his best-known works.

A religious ceremony is expected to be held on Saturday in Plomeur (Finistère), where he lived.

He will be cremated and his ashes will then be dispersed to Anaka in Uganda, land of his ancestors in northern Uganda.