A number of Africa’s best musicians will perform at a concert in Johannesburg in August, to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday, the Minister of Arts and Culture said on Tuesday.
Pallo Jordan said the concert, which he called a ”celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life” would be held on August 23, from 11am.
Jordan said the ”all-star concert” by South African and African performers would be a joyous occasion.
”In fact, this event will display to all of us the spirit of togetherness and unity that not only exists among the people of this country, but between Madiba and artists who truly understand what he stands for.”
Jordan said Baaba Maal, Dorothy Masuka, Jonas Gwangwa and Jimmy Dludlu would be some of the musicians expected to perform. Others included Kampi Moto, Karen Zoid, In-Cha, Danny K, Jozi and Gang of Instrumentals.
He said Mandela’s life would be celebrated through poetry, traditional instruments, praise singers and archival footage.
The concert would be hosted by the Department of Arts and Culture and the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
The foundation’s chief executive Achmat Dangor said celebrations to honour Mandela would continue until the end of the year.
”I think this concert is a very important milestone in these celebrations. It is very important because it brings the celebrations home publicly.
”A range of talented South Africans are working hard to create this celebration of the life of a unique person,” Dangor said. – Sapa