SA: UKZN to honour Vusi Mahlasela

The conferment, which is expected to take place at the university’s Westville campus, is intended to recognise Mahlasela’s contribution towards the advancement of South African society and the music industry.

The university will also honour former statistician-general Pali Lehohla, scientist and cancer treatment researcher Prof Tebello Nyokong as well as Trueman Goba, the first black South African civil engineer to graduate at UKZN.

“This is an important honour for me. God gave me the gift to impact people’s lives,” Mahlasela told a local publication. “Everyone who contributes with their skills academically or on any platform, as long it depicts a picture of who we are, what we should be and instils hope, must be acknowledged for their contribution.

“Everyone has a story to tell, we all have gifts given by God. We need to use them to help others. I started a music academy to pass on all the knowledge I have acquired to young musicians. Unfortunately, there’s not enough space to showcase our talent because we lack funding.”

This will not be the first time the accomplished guitarist will receive such an honour. In 2013, Rhodes University conferred Mahlasela with a doctor of law honoris causa for his role in unifying the South African nation through music.

In 2013, former president Jacob Zuma honoured Mahlasela with the National Order of Ikhamanga in silver. The bestowment is done on South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of art, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.

The 53 year old also received a lifetime achievement award at the South African Music Awards in 2012.

Mahlasela gained international recognition in 1990 when he played at the Zabalaza Festival in London. He dedicated his debut album When You Come Back to those who sacrificed their lives during apartheid. Mahlasela has committed his life to singing songs about freedom, social justice, police harassment and the struggle.