27 February 2008

It would seem the specter of Aids-related illnesses and death haunts our artistic community. Internationally acclaimed and award winning world music artist, Umanji, passed away yesterday from an Aids-related disease.

This happens soon after the passing on of young kwaito pioneer, “Zombo” Ndlovu.

The death of an artist is not only a family tragedy but a monumental loss for the nation and music lovers the world over.

We in the Ministry of Arts & Culture are alarmed and deeply concerned about the Aids-related spate of deaths. This death underscores the importance of our collective struggle to end the scourge of aids by embracing the government’s A,B,C strategy.

Mabuti Johannes Nkuna – popularly known as Umanji - was a global ambassador for South African musical talent, creativity and heritage. In a short career that exploded into the global spotlight in 2000, he was quickly recognized as a highly gifted African composer, singer and cultural visionary.

We hope and pray that his family, friends, relatives and fans throughout the world will have the strength to let his spirit rest in peace.

But, above all, we wish to express our heartfelt thanks for his significant contribution to the growth and development of indigenous music. He was a pioneer who did not hesitate to drink deep from the well of African musical roots and produce a fresh sound that had an unmistakable continental rhythm and feel.

What makes his death more painful is that it happens at a time when Government has renewed the pledge in the fight Aids. We categorically state that this dreaded disease is the new terrain of our national struggle. As Government we are deeply concerned that artists are rending themselves vulnerable to this infection.

Once again we encourage our artists to take heed of the Government’s message on Aids: Abstain, Be Faithful and Condomize. Artists are the soul of the nation and  are role models who should  be leading exemplary lives and spreading the positive message of “Khomanani” and loving ourselves.

Since 1999, Umanji has been single-mindedly focused on fusing indigenous African music with elements from all over the world. This has seen him bring an intuitive connection and refreshing rhythm to the appreciation of African music.

It was for this reason that when he first burst onto the scene in 2000, he was acclaimed as the Best New Comer at the South African Music Awards.

We shall all remember Umanji as a man who took his life into his own hands, fulfilled his purpose on earth and contributed much to the happiness and joy of happiness in this country and the world.

May his soul rest in peace!

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For further information call Sandile Memela, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Arts & Culture at 082 800 3750 or Premi Appalraju, Media Liaison Officer at 082 903 6778.

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