We mourn the loss of Hugh Masekela (Minister Anroux Marais) | Western Cape Government

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We mourn the loss of Hugh Masekela (Minister Anroux Marais)

23 January 2018

STATEMENT BY ANROUX MARAIS, MINISTER OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS AND SPORT

 

We mourn the loss of Hugh Masekela

 

It is with great sadness that I heard of the passing of one of South Africa’s music legends, Hugh Masekela.

Hugh was not only a master of jazz, he was the embodiment of the kind of role model we need in our country. He rose from difficult circumstances as a child to someone who brought hope to millions of people during the apartheid years. He was a man with a gentle and kind spirit, who touched many people through his music.

I, together with the people of the Western Cape, mourn the loss of this legend in the field of Arts and Culture. He was an inspiration and true example of the healing and transformative powers of the arts.

Our thoughts are with his family, as well as with the thousands of artists (both local and international) who were inspired on their journey by his musical genius. South Africa has indeed lost one of its icons.

Media Enquiries: 

Dr Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877 / 076 093 4913
E-mail: Tania.Colyn@westerncape.gov.za