SAFA mourns legendary African musician Masekela

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Tuesday Jan 23, 2018. 18:30

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has joined millions of South Africans in mourning the passing away of musician Hugh Masekela.

The veteran trumpeter died on Tuesday, 23 January 2018 after losing a lengthy battle with prostate cancer. He was 78. Masekela performed at the FIFA World Cup Kick-off Celebration Concert in June 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

“The giant of South African entertainment industry has fallen. The nation has lost one of the most recognizable faces of South African music industry,” said SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan on SAFA.net.

The SAFA President said music and football were closely related and cut across in most cases and Masekela was a regular feature during some of the top football matches across the country.

“Apart from being a prominent activist who spent most of his youthful days out of the country, away from his family fighting for an equal South Africa, Masekela was a people’s favourite hence his music was adored across all age groups. The country has lost a true giant; may his soul rest in peace,” added Dr Jordaan.

“On behalf of the South African football family, I want to send my condolences to the family, friends and to his fans across the globe.”

Masekela’s family on Tuesday released a statement confirming the death of the Witbank-born musician who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008. The world renowned trumpeter went on to cancel all scheduled performances in October, as his health was deteriorating.