THE mother of the late film star, Steven Kanumba, has thanked the government, friends and fans of his departed son for turning out in multitudes to bury him.

Addressing reporters on Thursday at Sinza in Dar es Salaam, Kanumba's mother Ms Flora Mtegoa, said she had nothing but gratitude to those who showed special affection to her son. "I am grateful to those who, in one way or the other, devoted their time for my son, right from the time of his death until we laid him to rest. I thank government leaders, the public and fans for their unmatched love to my son," she said.

During the burial, Kanumba's mother was overcome by emotions and had to leave mourners at the cemetery. on Thursday however, she went back to the Kinondoni graveyard and prayed amid tears and sadness.She was in the company of six people including, Seth, the late Kanumba's younger brother with whom they shared a house at Sinza.

A ritual was performed whereby each member of the family, placed a lit pink candle around the late Kanumba's grave. A representative of Kanumba's father, Mr Clisant Msipi, was also present at the graveside.

Meanwhile, the president of Tanzania Film Federation (TAFF), Mr Simon Mwakifwamba, has warned people using Kanumba's death to make money by printing T-shirts and any other product, to stop the practice henceforth.

Mr Mwakifwamba said any such activity should receive the consent of Kanumba's family."There are rumours that some people are planning to produce a film on the late Kanumba. This must only be done with blessings from his family," he said.

Kanumba who died on Saturday was buried on Tuesday at the Kinondoni graveyard. A young actress believed to be his girlfriend, Elizabeth Michael, popularly known as Lulu, has been charged with his murder.